Andrew Miller is the founder of Back to Basics Social Developments, a non profit organization that works on food, water, shelter and education projects designed to assist those living in poverty. In a mere two years, Back to Basics has grown and given over 27,000 pounds of vegetables to local food banks and taught over 100 volunteers the art of organic farming.

Back to Basics works in collaboration with local social service agencies, including: The Elizabeth Fry Society and their Grocery Assistance Program (GAP), The David Busby Street Centre, Youth Haven Shelter, The Salvation Army, Community Action Program for Children (CAPC), Newpath, and Transition Barrie.

In 2010, Back to Basics started Barrie’s first Biodiesel Cooperative in collaboration with Everpure Biodiesel Cooperative and Oilseed Works/Hempola/Flour Power. In the first year, over 4000 litres of biodiesel was distributed to their members.

Andrew is involved with the Barrie Alliance for Sustainability in Economy, Environment & Energy (BASE3), a committee organized by the Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Andrew works with the Sustainable Systems Advisory Committee at Georgian College to developing the new Sustainable Systems curriculum for the Bachelor of Technology program. Finally, Andrew sits on Barrie’s Environmental Advisory Committee where his depth of knowledge is already helping to make Barrie a better and greener community.

Raised in a family of active environmentalists , Andrew understands the environmental and social challenges we face today. He has extensive knowledge of environmental policy, social relations, technology, ‘green energy’, organic farming, strategic planning and sustainability.

Discussion versus debate is an approach Andrew embraces. He thrives when working with others and broadening his perspectives on sustainability solutions, and understands the current socio-economic paradigm – social, economic and environmental. His business experience, partnerships and collaborations speak for his ‘team’ approach and work ethic to solving problems and developing creative earth-friendly solutions to the issues we face in our community.

Andrew’s passion, experience and successes make him the ideal person to represent the Green Party of Ontario as their candidate for Barrie in the fall election. He is eager to meet the residents of Barrie to hear their issues and concerns in the coming months.

To contact Andrew directly, send an email to andrew@barriegreens.ca, or cal l him at 705-716-4006.