Amid the vibrant rows of vegetables at the Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank Farm, stunning murals by local artist Alika Rogers-Crooks breathe life into the space.
Alika started her career as a paramedic, but it was a stressful and demanding job. She sought a career change and pursued a commercial pilot’s license. Tragically, a helicopter malfunction led to a crash that left her with life-altering injuries and trauma.
During her recovery, Alika turned to art, teaching herself to draw and paint. Living on permanent disability, she began selling her artwork after others expressed interest.
Alika also discovered the Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank, which her family relied on when funds were tight. The art and community support started her healing journey and transformed her life.
“I began donating back to the Food Bank, and I worked with my neighbors who had an orchard to provide fresh produce,” said Alika. “When the farm started, I believed whole-heartedly in good food to help people's health.”
The Orangevale-Fair Oaks Community Foundation oversees these programs and wanted to brighten the farm. The team invited Alika to create the first mural, “We Grow Community.”
Thanks to a $250,000 grant, the farm expanded in 2024, and Alika returned to add her touch. She painted a vibrant mural on the shed, blending her creativity with the Foundation’s vision, and also adorned the farmstand, set to open in the spring.
“I know what it's like to struggle,” said Alika. “I hope my art will be why someone smiles or is inspired to keep going when they feel like giving up. To know that change is possible.”
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