09/27/2026
When we were approached by a small group of Ligonier community members in late April about working together to start a farmers market, our Board of Directors agreed to do so based on two key objectives detailed in our organization’s Strategic Plan: “To promote sustainable land use, management and accessibility on LWA properties,” and “To expand our outreach programs and community connections to increase public awareness and engagement.” There were no secret plans, no vendettas, no covert missions to destroy any towns or businesses. Just a genuine community need that we felt we could try to meet.
At the heart of LWA, we have always worked hard to do this in all of the communities we serve throughout the Loyalhanna Creek Watershed by implementing restoration projects, educational programming and events. We believe it is a privilege to operate as a non-profit 501(c)(3), and are committed to communicating openly about our organization’s plans, operations, board members, financial statements and charitable contributions, honoring the trust placed in us by our donors, supporters, members, volunteers and partners.
We were proud to uphold this same standard while administering the Ligonier Valley Farmers Market. This responsibility meant more to us that simply collecting vendor fees or setting up the field for eight weeks this summer. It was about exemplifying what it means to be a non-profit: following our mission, serving the public good, responding to community needs and ensuring that resources are directed toward meaningful local impact.
We are pleased to publicly share the Profit and Loss Statement from the 2026 Market. It is important to note that the Loyalhanna Watershed Association did not financially benefit from hosting or administering the market, nor did its professional staff or board members. Our involvement was rooted in community service and outreach, not personal or organizational financial gain. The market was hosted in the spirit of supporting our area farmers and small business vendors, strengthening connections, providing educational opportunities and helping other important local causes, while ensuring our property was maintained and managed correctly. And we are incredibly honored to have been asked to be a part of it.
Saying “thank you” to those who worked side-by-side with us over the last five months is simply not enough, but for what it’s worth, THANK YOU! We are grateful for your support, kindness, and “attitude of pure gratitude,” to quote Mr. Bob Reintgen, who spent every Saturday greeting all who attended the market with a wave and a smile. What a wonderful piece of advice that is for us all.
We hope to see you again next year!
