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 best practices. Its focus has expanded to include providing assistance to families and individuals, in developing countries to help them obtain better employment, improved their access to information and to cover the cost of critical health care interventions. Join Hands also strives to provide opportunities to interested individuals to become involved in project activities.
Our leadership
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Joel Ransom serves as the president of Join Hands. He is retired from fulltime employment. Professionally, he worked as an agronomist. He has 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 also worked for more 20 years as an extension agronomist at North Dakota State University specializing in small-grains (wheat, barley, and oats) and corn.
Board Members
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Brad Leeser - Retired from the insurance industry in the field of professional medical liability where he oversaw claims in several states. He publicly spoken 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.
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Courtney Stanley grew up in Wisconsin and currently lives in Idaho 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. 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.
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Patricia Ransom (Secretary/treasurer,) - Retired elementary school aid, volunteer youth educator, and seamstress.