Vision
Our vision is a sustainable, healthy, and just future for all.
Mission
Our mission is to foster educational experiences that build connections and inspire a deeper appreciation and respect for nature, food, and one another.
Values
Our values are: Access, Community, Exploration, and Stewardship.
This legacy began in 1924, when Frank and Josephine Duveneck purchased the property near Los Altos in 1924 and began sharing the land and creating humanitarian programs that have inspired many generations. The Duvenecks were profoundly generous and dedicated to creating a just and sustainable future for all.
Today, the Hidden Villa Board of Trustees remains committed to the lessons long taught by the Duvenecks and sustained by our organization since their passing. We stand opposed to discrimination based on ethnicity, national origin, religion or sexual identity. We support environmental regulations that preserve our healthy environment and food systems through regenerative agriculture, and most of all, we strive to inspire future leaders and stewards of the earth.
Learn about our Educational Philosophy and our practice of Responsible Agriculture.
Hidden Villa Timeline
(Click on the “Read Complete History” below for more details)
Hidden Villa was established.
Opened the first hostel on the Pacific coast.
Created the first multi-racial, residential summer camp.
Provided housing and re-settlement support for Japanese Americans returning from internment camps.
Established the Trust for Hidden Villa as a nonprofit.
Supported Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta in organizing the National Farm Workers Movement (which became the UFW)
Developed the Hidden Villa Environmental Education Program.
Community Programs begins.
Community first has access to Hidden Villa produce; the Community Supported Agricultural (CSA) share box program begins.
Community Services Agency of Mountain View partnership begins and continues today providing over 40,000 servings of fresh produce annually.
Middle and High school aged programming expands to include the school year.
Summer Camp program expands to include Kinder Camp and a Citizen Scientist backing packing trip in the Sierras
Expanded weekend offerings.
Food for Thought helps adults navigate the nuanced food conversation through programs, conversations and collaborations.