Biophilia is the inherent draw people feel toward nature and other living things. This connection with nature is rooted in our biology and contributes to human development, physical and mental health, and well-being (E.O. Wilson, 1984).

Solidarity in Italy is described as “A shared value that many Italians aspire to that tends to promote equality, social rights, well-being, and friendship" (Arban, Erika 2021)

 Social capital is “the network of relationships and acquaintances that a person has developed over their life” (Putnam, R. 2001).  We focused on bonding, bridging, and linking, which are networks and relationships based on reciprocity and fairness. The landscape is where solidarity happens and social capital thrives.

 The notion that every human being has the right to have access to and be supported by landscapes that enhance and improve their lives and empower their full human capabilities. With this right is also the responsibility to protect, steward, and manage these landscapes (Egoz, Jorgenson, & Ruggeri, 2018). 

 Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a collaborative research process grounded in the lived experiences of others, and the partnership between the community and the researchers is key. PAR values the action and reflection that comes with the research process as much as the product. 

 Agroecology is the integration of research, education, action and change that brings sustainability to all parts of the food system: ecological, economic, and social. It is transdisciplinary, participatory, and action-oriented. The approach is grounded in ecological thinking where a holistic, systems-level understanding of food system sustainability is required (Gliessman, S. 2018).

 Storytelling is central to this project. It is how we share our values, ambitions, and challenges. By sharing our stories, we have created the "story of us" with our project partners.

In 2011, author Marshall Ganz stated, "in order to motivate others to join us in making change, we need to identify and articulate our shared values in a way that spurs us to take action, together. The most effective way to do that is by telling stories."