Cynthia Schaefer
Cynthia Schaefer, a lifelong student of nature and staunch advocate for sustainable living, spent 40 years transforming her urban home in Davie, Florida, into a flourishing paradise of edible landscaping.
In 2024, she moved to Rutherfordton, NC to a five acre home which she is transforming into a homestead.
With 45 fruit trees already planted, and a large garden, greenhouse and herbal garden, her intent is to provide nutritious, organically grown food to her community.
As a skilled herbalist, Cynthia is fervently dedicated to educating others about the vitality of plants, the importance of biodiversity, and the roadmap to vibrant wellness. She hosts a range of classes covering topics from cultivating food and herbs, to the art of fermentation, demonstrating her wide breadth of knowledge.
Cynthia's distinguished career as a financial advisor spanned over two and a half decades, culminating in a successful business transition in 2017. This pivotal move allowed her to pursue her true passion - immersing herself in nature and championing sustainable living.
Her dedication to her craft is mirrored in her home life, where she thrives on her 5-acre homestead. As an author, speaker, and environmental advocate, Cynthia Schaefer continues to inspire and educate others on the path to vibrant wellness and sustainable living.
Community Efforts
Urban Homesteading Content
Cynthia is available to speak or teach.
To see some of her stuff, check out this series that her friend David Stack of Stack's Urban Harvest captured on his channel: Urban Homestead
Agricultural & Environmental Advisory Committee and Community Service
Cynthia served on the AEAC for many years, stepping down in June of 2023.
The Caring Community was co-founded by Cynthia in 2018. TCC served the South Florida Community as a nonprofit working in food justice and supporting teachers by providing teachers lounges with herbal teas and education. In 2025 the nonprofit formally closed but the work continues. Three gardens in South Florida still provide fresh, organic food to local food pantries thanks to the dedicated work of loving volunteers.
South Florida Edible Gardening and Sustainable Living
Cynthia founded this group in 2013. She's given away hundreds of plants, cutting and seeds as well as workshops. She believes strongly that connected local communities make us all stronger.