'Farms Work Wonders' gives Appalachian youth transformative skills training

“I live pretty much in the middle of nowhere,” Montgomery, who is still in high school, said. “So I didn’t know where I was going to get a job - whether it was McDonald’s or another fast-food chain,” she added with a laugh.  

Recently, Montgomery was approached at her school about an opportunity with a non-profit called “Farms Work Wonders." The paid six-week program gives Appalachian teens skills training, with the opportunity for a full-time job upon completion.  

Opportunities include training in agriculture, culinary arts, and marketing among other areas.  

The program, which started in 2016, began as a way to create curiosity among young adults and help create successful futures.  

“I don’t think we changed anything except ignited a flame for what’s possible,” Jason Smith, managing director for Farms Work Wonders, said.    

Annually, the nonprofit provides over $3 million in wages for Wardensville, West Virginia, which has a population of 270.  

“It made me think about what I want to do,” Elvira Camarillo, a Farms Work Wonders graduate, said. “I want to be a chef.” She’s now working at Mack’s Bingo restaurant, which is in Wardensville and employs both students and graduates.  

“They’re helping me work toward my goal every day,” Camarillo said. “I think that it’s amazing.”    

For Montgomery, she realizes the opportunity she’s been given goes beyond a paycheck.  

“We also have an opportunity to grow as a community and town,” Montgomery said. “It’s pretty cool.”    

This story is part of WUSA’s ongoing series “The Heart of It”, which highlights the best of the human spirit. If you have a story suggestion for Sean Martinelli, email TheHeartOfIt@wusa9.com