From 2000 to 2025, RAFI operated out of its Pittsboro home, which housed both the organization’s business offices and the Dan Pollitt Center. The space served as home to RAFI’s programs and daily operations for 25 years. In 2025, the property was sold to the Town of Pittsboro, marking the close of an important chapter. To honor this transition and celebrate the legacy of the space, the RAFI community gathered for a heartfelt event.
The celebration took place on Sunday, November 16, 2025, inside the Dan Pollitt Center. Farmers, local advocates, community members, and both former and current staff and board members attended. Many generations were present, and together they honored the building’s history and the decades of work it has supported. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude for all that has been accomplished and quiet excitement for what comes next.
Throughout the afternoon, stories were shared that connected the past to the present. One of the most touching moments came when Dan Pollitt’s adult children shared the original guest book from the day the building was dedicated to their father. Guests could flip through the pages and feel the presence of the people who helped define RAFI’s early years. Dan’s children also spoke about their father’s legacy in advocacy and the labor movement in the South and across the country. Their reflections reminded everyone that RAFI’s mission has always been rooted in justice, dignity, and community.
The celebration also recognized those who have carried this work forward over the years. Kathy Zaumseil, RAFI’s former Director of Administration and project manager for the structure’s construction, spoke about the charrette used to determine how best to develop the property in an environmentally sound way, informed by community needs and desires. She also talked about the process of deconstructing the old house on the property and reusing the materials to create the building that now stands. The building’s original architect, Alicia Ravetto, was also present. Her design later became the subject of an ENERGY STAR case study, as it was the first certified ENERGY STAR office building in North Carolina — a project that was ahead of its time.
Pittsboro Mayor Kyle Shipp expressed admiration for RAFI’s history and for the building’s important role in the community. Although the Town has not yet finalized plans for its future use, one possibility under consideration is housing the Parks and Recreation Department. Many in the room felt reassured that the space would be thoughtfully used in its next chapter.
Music from River Folk created a joyful backdrop for the gathering. The band includes RAFI’s own Communications Director, Beth Hauptle, which made the performance especially meaningful. Guests also browsed a silent auction featuring original photography that chronicled RAFI’s work over the years. The desserts for the event were lovingly prepared by Justine Post, Director of RAFI’s Come to the Table program, adding a sweet touch to the celebration.
Past and present employees, board members, and especially the farmers who remain central to RAFI’s mission received special acknowledgement.
Co-Executive Director Kavita Koppa shared reflections on the significance of the day. She emphasized the importance of pausing to honor a place that has supported so much advocacy, research, organizing, and community-building. She also noted that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the building will be used to give back to the Chatham County community that has supported RAFI over the years.
Overall, the gathering felt wholesome and meaningful. It offered an opportunity to close a chapter with gratitude while stepping forward with confidence and hope. Although RAFI has moved on from this building, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to farmers, rural communities, equity, and a more just food system. The celebration made it clear that the legacy is strong and the future is full of promise.
RAFI staff in the Triangle area now split their time between working from home and gathering at a co-working space in Pittsboro, retaining roots in a community that has supported the organization throughout the years.