About Giving Panda

Panda holding apple with heart shape.

A panda is fluffy and fun and plays in the garden, but is still a bear and protects what is important.

Why We Started…

Fresh food is a necessity not a privilege. With this statement I address everyone, especially those of you going through a hard time. The food going into your body determines the outcome of your ‘What’s Next’ thought. Here at Giving Panda we want to try to give everyone in hard times the best possible chance to get out of their situation through food. We believe what you put in your body can change your overall disposition which can lead to great things in a positive way.

Board of Directors

Smiling bald man wearing glasses and a blue shirt.

Eric the President

Meet president Eric Picone. I have always been a helping person for people in need and someone that likes hard work because it seems to me that hard work makes rest feel so much better. After serving in the military and going overseas, I had a hard time transitioning back to civilian life. During this time, I learned how processed food affects the body. When people are going through a difficult time, this is not what they need in order to help themselves recover. In order to change this, I started farming for the people in need. I give all the credit Jesus for my successful transition to civilian life and inspiring me to help others.

Austin the Vice President

Meet Vice President Austin! Austin works at a Library in the Children’s Department. He likes to read and write and play video games in his free time. Austin recently started drawing, while he is not very good at it, hoping that one day he can capture the images of the growing gardens of The Giving Panda.

Man with glasses and long hair wearing a white tuxedo and bow tie.
Portrait of a smiling woman with dark hair and a colorful scarf.

Madi the Secretary

Meet Secretary Madi! Madi works in the Public School System as an Elementary Educator. She loves to read, write, and craft. Madi has a Bachelors and Master’s Certificate from UNC Charlotte and loves being a part of the Charlotte community. She looks forward to contributing to her city and working with patrons specifically in gardening education.

Do You Want To Learn How to Build Your Own Garden?

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