Hidden Gems: Meet Crystal Hilsley of CCNG Developments

–Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Hilsley.

Hi Crystal, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up with a kitchen garden as my playground, I was nurtured on the values of clean eating from an early age, thanks to my mother—a nurse with a hippie spirit who emphasized healthy, natural foods. We snacked on fruits straight from the trees and carrots right from the ground, with soda and candy reserved for rare special occasions. This early exposure to a wholesome diet fundamentally shaped my approach to health and wellness.

I carried this passion into adulthood, becoming a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner in 2017. I worked closely with families, helping them instill robust nutritional habits in their children, laying the groundwork for a healthier future generation. My commitment extended beyond individual families to the community, where I collaborated with schools and local stores to organize educational events and speak on the importance of nutrition.

My journey didn’t stop there. Driven by a desire to make a broader impact, I launched a mixed media company that produced a wide range of content—from podcasts and TV series to books and educational courses. However, the urge to delve deeper into sustainability led me back to academia, where I gained certifications in Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Management and Sustainability Strategy. Leveraging my corporate development background, I then transitioned into development teams within the hospitality and mixed-use sectors, focusing on integrating on-site food production with global sustainability goals.

Today, I blend my storytelling and branding skills with my technical knowledge to enhance the profitability and appeal of sustainable projects. I’ve learned that sustainability not only benefits our planet but also drives economic value, as demonstrated by longer guest stays and increased spending in programs that I help design.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve learned that the road sometimes twists and turns, has hills and valleys – it’s all part of the journey!

One of the persistent challenges has been the need for extensive education and advocacy Despite the growing awareness of sustainability and the data to show the market demand for farm and garden experiences, there seems to be a remaining gap in the understanding of its long-term benefits and necessity. Convincing stakeholders – whether they are individuals or businesses often involves dismantling preconceived notions and demonstrating the tangible returns on investment in sustainable practices or the development of an agriculture asset.

Another common hurdle is the skepticism regarding the economic viability of sustainability. I’ve encountered numerous instances where the initial costs of sustainable solutions were scrutinized, with questions raised about their profitability and effectiveness. What’s most interesting is the fact that more often than not, a sustainable alternative to traditional methods or materials – is more cost effective!

These conversations often require a detailed explanation of how sustainable practices not only preserve environmental resources but also enhance long-term economic returns through efficiency gains, improved community goodwill, and regulatory compliance.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about CCNG Develpments?
CCNG—which stands for Cultivating Community and Nurturing Growth—is an innovative organization dedicated to redefining the intersection of sustainable agriculture and community wellness. At its core, CCNG is not just about producing food but about cultivating ecosystems of health, education, and economic vitality.

What We Do and Specialize In:
CCNG specializes in transforming spaces and mindsets through sustainable agriculture. We design and implement garden and small farm ecosystems for homeowners, schools, and mixed-use developments. Our approach is holistic, integrating the principles of organic farming, permaculture, and environmental sustainability into every project to not only yield nutrient-rich produce but also to foster a deeper connection between people and the food they consume.

Our Distinctiveness:
What sets CCNG apart is our dual focus on both the micro and macro aspects of sustainability. Locally, we empower homeowners, and communities to grow their own food in a way that enriches their land and lives. On a larger scale, we collaborate with developers, hospitality venues and mixed use facilities to integrate sustainable agricultural practices into new and existing projects, aiming to create self-sustaining communities and green urban spaces. Our projects are designed to be as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional, ensuring that each initiative enhances community engagement and local biodiversity.

Brand Pride:
We are particularly proud of our brand’s commitment to education and empowerment. CCNG is recognized for not only leading by example in sustainable practices but also for our role in educating communities about the importance of sustainability in daily living. Through workshops, speaking engagements, and digital content, we help demystify sustainable living practices, making them accessible and practical for everyone.

Our Unique Offerings:

Residential Garden Design, Install and Maintenance: Tailored garden setups that turn backyards into bountiful, sustainable food sources.
Educational Programs: Workshops and courses that teach sustainable gardening techniques and holistic health practices.
Corporate Consulting: Strategic advice for integrating sustainability into business operations and physical spaces.
Commercial Development: Design, Project Oversight, Maintenance and Program Development of Chef’s Gardens and MicroFarms.

What Sets Us Apart:
Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering, but what truly distinguishes CCNG is our approach to profitability. We understand that sustainability must be economically viable to be truly transformative. Our projects are designed not only to be environmentally friendly but also economically beneficial, creating value through increased property appeal, lower utility costs, and enhanced community standing.

What We Want Readers to Know:
At CCNG, we believe that every small step towards sustainability is a step towards a healthier planet and a more connected community. We invite you to join us in this movement—whether it’s by turning your home into a mini-farm, participating in our educational programs, or simply engaging with our content to learn more about living sustainably. With CCNG, sustainability is not just a concept but a practical, enjoyable, and life-enhancing reality.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
At CCNG, we are always looking to expand our community of passionate individuals, organizations, and collaborators who share our vision for a sustainable, healthful, and interconnected world. There are numerous ways you can work with us, collaborate, or support our initiatives:

1. For Homeowners and Property Owners:
If you’re interested in transforming your property into a sustainable oasis, we offer personalized design and consulting services as well as maintenance packages. From small garden installations to comprehensive farm setups, our team can help you create a beautiful and productive space that suits your lifestyle and promotes biodiversity. Go to www.homegrownharvest.pro

2. For Schools and Educational Institutions:
We partner with educational institutions to develop curriculum-based programs that integrate hands-on learning in sustainability and agriculture. By collaborating with us, schools can provide students with invaluable real-world experiences in growing food, understanding ecology, and practicing environmental stewardship.

3. For Developers and Businesses:
CCNG consults on integrating sustainable agricultural practices into development projects and business operations. We help create green spaces that not only enhance aesthetic and environmental value but also contribute to your sustainability goals and compliance with global standards.

4. For Volunteers and Interns:
If you’re looking to gain hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, or if you’re passionate about contributing to community wellness initiatives, consider volunteering or interning with us. This is a great way to make a difference while learning more about the field.

5. For Investors and Donors:
Supporting CCNG financially helps us expand our reach and impact. Investments and donations are crucial for launching new projects and scaling up successful initiatives. Your support can directly contribute to building sustainable communities and promoting eco-friendly living practices.

6. Spread the Word:
Help raise awareness about the importance of sustainability by sharing our story and our projects in your community and on social media. Advocacy is a powerful tool for change, and by helping to spread the word, you contribute to a larger movement towards a sustainable future.

Connect with Us:
To explore any of these opportunities, please visit our website, follow us on our social media platforms, or contact us directly through email. We are eager to hear from you and explore how we can work together towards a more sustainable and healthful world.

www.CCNG.dev – Commercial
www.Homegrown-Harvests.com – Residential

Pricing:

• All dependent on scope and size

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ccng_developments
• Website: https://homegrown-harvests.com/