For our first ever 'Faces of Farm' interview, we're pleased to introduce Steve Marks.

Steve is a regular volunteer at the cafe as a Greeter and All-Around Helper, and has been helping out since the Summer of 2023.

Steve Marks always has a volunteer spirit (and a cookie in hand). At F.A.R.M., you can see it in the way he offers to clean a table for a diner, the way he welcomes a first-time visitor, and mostly, the way he engages in easy, comfortable conversation.

You can also see it when he is serving as the volunteer fire chief at Cove Creek Fire Department, engaging with students at Appalachian State’s Listening Post, and managing a security team at Boonerang.

Steve Marks simply wants to work with people. “It’s the greatest job anyone can have although now I don’t get paid a cent!” Retired, Steve reflects on his life. “During the first half of my life, I’ve gotten to experience many wonderful things. It is now my time to give back.” One way to do that, he believes, is through the power of story. “Everyone has a story to tell and wants to share it. But they only want to share if they feel safe. F.A.R.M. models being both a teller and listener with the simple phrase ‘everyone is welcome at the table.’ It creates community and models compassion.”

Next time you are in F.A.R.M., look for Steve. Tell him your story. He will be the person with a hot cup of coffee, a smile and a listening ear.