This year marks Pipestone Helping Farmers’ third consecutive year volunteering with the ATLAS Greenhouse project. The project came onto Pipestone’s radar through connections with ATLAS and VIP leadership, including Ivan Vogel, one of VIP’s owners and a long-term ATLAS board member. When the need for additional support became known, Pipestone employees were quick to step up, especially those with a love for plants and a passion for supporting the community.
Multiple Pipestone employee groups contribute to the success of the project each season. The Truck Wash team helps assemble the greenhouse alongside VIP staff, a hands-on effort that requires many people to work together. The Managed Barn Finance Team assists with unloading the semi and vans that deliver the plants. The initial delivery takes about four hours and nearly ten people to get the greenhouse fully stocked. After that, volunteers continue helping unload plants weekly until the greenhouse closes.
Pipestone supports the ATLAS Greenhouse because it is an ongoing, week‑to‑week need, not just a one-time project. “They need help week after week to get the job done,” said Tricia Tinklenberg, Accounts Receivable Clerk at Pipestone and head of the ATLAS Greenhouse project. “With how large our team is, we have the capability to have many hands available.” ATLAS is an important part of the communities Pipestone serves and supporting the organization while spending time together as a team makes the experience especially rewarding.
In addition to donating time and manpower, Pipestone also provides monetary support through its GiVE Program, which allows employees to request funds to support organizations and initiatives within their local communities. Supporting ATLAS through GiVE is another way Pipestone invests in the people and organizations that make a meaningful local impact.
And when asked what volunteers enjoy most about the project, Tricia’s answer is simple: “Of course, the flower smell is amazing, but what really makes it special is knowing the work we’re doing helps support our community. Being able to give back while working alongside our teammates makes it incredibly meaningful.”
