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.
Patricia Ransom (Secretary/treasurer,) - Retired elementary school aid, volunteer youth educator, and seamstress.