Join Hands was established in 2017 with the objective of assisting small-scale farmers to be more productive and profitable by applying the results of relevant research. It also seeks to assist families in developing countries to obtain better employment and improved access to information that can improve their health and well-being. Join Hands also strives to provide opportunities to interested individuals in not only providing donations, but also an opportunity to be involved in assisting with training programs and on-farm research projects.
Our leadership
Joel Ransom serves as the president of Join Hands. He is an agronomist with a PhD from the University of Minnesota and has lived lived and worked for more than 20 years in developing countries (Mexico, Kenya and Nepal) conducting and supporting agricultural research and development projects. He has also worked for more than 15 years as an extension agronomist at North Dakota State University specializing in small-grains (wheat, barley, and oats) and corn.
Board Members
Brad Leeser - Employed in the insurance industry in the field of professional medical liability. He oversees claims in several states and often speaks on the topics of insurance, claims and risk management. He has served on the Executive Council of the Northern Lights Council, Boy Scouts of America, as well as on the Board of Directors of the Clay County (Minnesota) American Cancer Society and the North Dakota Healthcare Risk Management Society.
Scott Barrett - Former foundation fund raiser, now retired. Extensive experience with fund raising, financial management. PhD in communications from North Dakota State University.
Randall Olson - Farmer, business owner, bean merchandiser, North Dakota.
Courtney Stanley grew up in Wisconsin and currently lives in northwestern Minnesota with her husband and three kids. She has always had a passion for the arts, community, and culture, and has been lucky enough to turn part of that into her career - Courtney sells her artwork in an online business she owns and operates called Northerly Goods. Before settling back into the midwest and starting a family, she traveled extensively and lived in places like Russia and Germany, where she volunteered as an English teacher to young children. Courtney says her years spent abroad helped her unearth a strong desire to help others thrive. Taking her love for the arts and culture and using that to inspire and connect with others is Courtney’s forte, and she is beyond excited to put that to good use with Join Hands.Courtney Stanley grew up in Wisconsin and currently lives in northwestern Minnesota with her husband and three kids. She has always had a passion for the arts, community, and culture, and has been lucky enough to turn part of that into her career - Courtney sells her artwork in an online business she owns and operates called Northerly Goods. Before settling back into the midwest and starting a family, she traveled extensively and lived in places like Russia and Germany, where she volunteered as an English teacher to young children. Courtney says her years spent abroad helped her unearth a strong desire to help others thrive. Taking her love for the arts and culture and using that to inspire and connect with others is Courtney’s forte, and she is beyond excited to put that to good use with Join Hands.
Patricia Ransom (Secretary/treasurer,) - Retired elementary school aid, volunteer youth educator, and seamstress.