Thomas E. Broffman, PhD, LICSW, CAADAC, CCS, CEAP
Co-Founder
During those early days, Tom walked alongside me, fueling the drive to bring Ashes to Leaves to life. He saw the potential of my vision, illustrating how a nonprofit sanctuary could heal our community. His heart was set on a veteran community garden, a sanctuary he knew would provide peace; thus, it became our premier project. Tom led us with inspiring words and was our ultimate closer.
Our Early Roots
In the soft hush of our beginning at Ashes to Leaves, his vision felt both gentle and powerful. He guided us through the initial paperwork that birthed our mission, certain that the rhythm of planting could mend a fractured spirit just as it enriches the ground. He spent endless dawns designing our original plots, determined that every veteran entering this space would find true belonging and rest. These foundational roots grew from his deep devotion to others and his soulful conviction that new life always follows the frost.
Continuing the Vision
Within Ashes to Leaves, his enduring spirit thrives deep within the earth we nurture. We celebrate his kindness by sustaining the dream of transforming life's greatest trials into seasons of renewal and hope. Through these gardens, we uphold his gift of natural healing, ensuring the foundations he built continue to blossom for our community, cultivating lasting peace and purpose for every veteran and neighbor in our care.