Behind the Beans: Alma Team Visits Finca T
A few weeks ago, Max Folger (General Manager at Alma), Kiersten Amburgey (Barista Lead), and Lilly Mercado (Marketing Specialist) spent a week at Finca T in Corquín, Copán, Honduras, experiencing the coffee process firsthand and immersing themselves in life on the farm. Here’s what each of them took away from the visit.
1. What was the most surprising thing about the visit to Finca T?
Max Folger:
“Having visited the farm before, the most surprising thing was seeing the progress that has been made. The school is now built and full of students, the processing area has been expanded, and the farm now has its own dedicated composting facility. These improvements happened quickly and are already making an impact for both the farm and the children attending classes.”
Kiersten Amburgey:
“The most surprising aspect was seeing just how labor-intensive it is to produce a single coffee bean. So many factors—from the weather and soil to the water and the hands picking the cherry—come into play. Witnessing the hard work and dedication of the farm team firsthand gives a completely new appreciation for what goes into every cup of coffee.”
Lilly Mercado:
“The sense of community was the most surprising part of the visit. Everyone knew each other, greeted one another, and took the time to stop and talk. It felt like walking through school hallways and seeing familiar faces. Each person understood how their role contributed to the larger work of the farm, and many worked alongside family members, adding to the strong sense of unity.”
2. What key pillar was really put into perspective and why?
Max Folger:
“All three pillars were evident, but the ‘improving lives’ pillar stood out most. While the new school was a highlight, the positivity from the farm team and the opportunities Finca T provides to its community really emphasized how the farm is making a difference in people’s lives.”
Kiersten Amburgey:
“All three pillars were put into perspective. Improving lives is seen through the support of farmers and surrounding communities. Sustainable practices go beyond expectations, as every by-product of the coffee process is reused, including as organic pesticide or fertilizer. Extraordinary coffee comes from these sustainable practices, with every cherry carefully inspected by our Q Grader to ensure top quality.”
Lilly Mercado:
“The trip allowed all three pillars to be experienced firsthand. Improving lives was clear in the school and community support. Sustainable practices were visible in how every part of the coffee process is repurposed. Extraordinary coffee was demonstrated in the meticulous care at every step—from picking perfectly ripe cherries to sorting beans by weight and size. These practices ensure that only the highest quality coffee ever leaves Finca T.”
3. What is one memory that will stay with you?
Max Folger:
“The hike to the waterfall with Michael from Finca T stands out. Despite the rainy season and the challenging terrain, we hiked, bouldered, and even swam through sections of the jungle to reach a secluded waterfall. Overcoming the obstacles together created a strong sense of accomplishment.”
Kiersten Amburgey:
“The passion of every single member of the Finca T family is unforgettable. Each person takes pride in their role and in supporting the farm, which was clear in every conversation. Their love for coffee and dedication to their work was inspiring and a true reflection of the care that goes into producing extraordinary coffee.”
Lilly Mercado:
“Visiting the town hospital and the special needs school was an eye-opening experience. Both faced challenges, such as limited staff, supplies, and resources, yet the dedication of the teachers, nurses, and doctors was inspiring. Seeing how Finca T supports the community through donations and resources highlighted the farm’s commitment not only to coffee, but to the people who make it possible and the town that surrounds it. It was a powerful reminder of the impact that responsible farming and community support can have.”
Spending time at Finca T gave the Alma team a deeper understanding of the dedication, care, and community that go into every step of coffee production. From the farm’s progress and passionate team to its sustainable practices and extraordinary coffee, it is clear that Finca T is more than just a farm. It is a place that improves lives and supports its community.
Every cup of Alma coffee tells this story. By buying our coffee, you are not only enjoying some of the highest quality coffee available, but you are also supporting the farmers, the community, and the sustainable practices that make this coffee exceptional. Taste the difference and be part of the journey from farm to cup.
