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Fourth-generation farm reimagined to strengthen local food systems, improve community health and support regional economic growth

Good Deeds Farm, founded by Sharie Cradduck, is introducing a community-focused agricultural model that supports rural economic development, expands access to locally grown food, and promotes long-term public health outcomes in Randolph County.

Built on a fourth-generation family farm, the business represents a growing movement toward small-scale, sustainable agriculture that strengthens local supply chains while creating new economic opportunities in rural communities.

Cradduck, a Southern Illinois native, brings 25 years of experience in state and federal government, along with a background in geography and geographic information systems. Her transition into agriculture reflects both a return to her roots and a strategic investment in the future of rural communities.

“Over time, I felt a strong responsibility to use the land in a way that benefits the broader community,” Cradduck said. “This is about more than farming. It’s about creating access, strengthening connections, and supporting long-term well-being.”

Good Deeds Farm will launch in 2026 as a market garden, producing fresh vegetables for local consumption through a roadside stand and regional farmers markets. The model emphasizes soil health, sustainability, and direct-to-community distribution, helping address gaps in food access, including rural food deserts.

In addition to food production, the farm will serve as a platform for community engagement and education, with planned partnerships involving local schools, churches, and healthcare providers. These efforts aim to increase awareness of the connection between agriculture, nutrition, and health while supporting hands-on learning opportunities.

By strengthening local food systems, Good Deeds Farm contributes to improved food security, supports local economies and aligns with broader efforts to address health disparities in underserved areas.

“There’s a growing recognition that food plays a critical role in health outcomes,” Cradduck said. “How food is grown, where it comes from and how accessible it is all matter. This work is about helping connect those pieces at the local level.”

As she developed her business, Cradduck worked closely with the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, which provided guidance on business planning, operations, and strategic development.

“The SBDC provided the structure and resources I needed to move forward,” she said. “Their support helped turn an idea into a viable business that can make a lasting impact.”

"It has been a privilege to collaborate with Sharie. Ms. Cradduck demonstrated a diligent commitment to every strategic phase, ensuring a robust and sustainable foundation for Good Deeds Farm," says Jo Ann Di Maggio May, Director of the Illinois SBDC.

The SBDC plays a critical role in supporting entrepreneurs across the region by providing no-cost advising, training, and resources that help small businesses launch, grow, and contribute to the local economy.

Good Deeds Farm represents a long-term investment in rural economic resilience, community health, and sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how locally driven initiatives can create meaningful impact across multiple sectors.

About Good Deeds Farm
Good Deeds Farm is a Coulterville-based agricultural business focused on small-scale, sustainable food production, community engagement, and education. Built on a fourth-generation family farm, the business aims to improve access to fresh, locally grown food while promoting soil health and long-term wellness. Follow Good Deeds Farm on Facebook and contact them via email at gooddeedsfarm.local@gmail.com.

About the Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE
The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE assists entrepreneurs as well as existing business owners operating in the nine-county Metro East region of Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe, and Randolph counties. The SBDC enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance through counseling, training, research and advocacy for new ventures and existing small businesses.

SBDC offices in Illinois are funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement among the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as a service to the community.

To learn how these no-cost services may help your business venture, contact the Metro East SBDC at (618) 650-2929 or sbdcedw@gmail.com.

PHOTO: Sharie Cradduck of Good Deeds Farm; Good Deeds Farm logo