As young parents, Steve and Corey Veldheer were doing everything they could to raise their children in a healthy, sustainable way: buying organic food, recycling and being mindful of what their two toddlers consumed. But one day, as they spread chemical fertilizer across their lawn, they realized that something just didn’t add up. Why were they so careful about what went on their dinner table, yet careless about what went on the ground where their kids played, and what went into the garden beds in their own backyard? That disconnect set them on a mission to find a better way to care for their yard, and ultimately to help change how people think about lawn care altogether.

Their research led them repeatedly to one natural solution: vermicompost, rich in nutrients and alive with beneficial microbes. They began experimenting with worm composting in their suburban garage, quickly realizing its potential to rebuild soil health and naturally nourish plants without the need for harmful chemicals. This hands-on journey sparked a passion for soil science and organic lawn care that would soon grow into something much bigger.

What began as a small vermicompost project rapidly expanded into a full organic lawn care company serving households, initially in the Detroit area, but now working throughout West Michigan. Steve and Corey combined their love for soil, commitment to sustainability and desire to help others transition away from chemical-dependent lawns into a thriving business.

In late 2022, Steve began thinking about the future of Good Sweet Earth, and he began making plans to ensure its success for decades to come— even without Corey or himself at the helm. This led to the re-organization of Good Sweet Earth in 2024, from an LLC to a nonprofit organization, run by a board of directors, with Steve and Corey still serving at the heart of the everything.

Over the years, Good Sweet Earth has evolved into West Michigan’s leading resource for organic lawn care and soil health education. Beyond lawn treatments, they provide community workshops, educational resources, and affordable access to organic products, all designed to empower people to create resilient, vibrant yards that support biodiversity and combat climate change.

Good Sweet Earth stands at the intersection of science, activism and community care. They are proud soil nerds, lawn experts, community organizers and climate advocates—including not just founders Steve and Corey, but passionate volunteers, a committed board and neighborhood ambassadors who champion natural lawn care in their communities. Together, this group believes that healthy soil is the foundation for healthy homes, and a healthier planet starts with the soil right outside our backdoors Their mission is clear: eliminate barriers to organic lawn care so that everyone can nurture their outdoor spaces naturally and sustainably.

From their beginnings as concerned parents to becoming pioneers in organic lawn care, Steve and Corey’s story is a testament to how curiosity, passion, and a commitment to doing better can transform not only a yard but an entire community.