The CCOF Foundation is proud to announce our newest 2023 Future Organic Farmers cohort! Thanks to the generosity of our donors who are passionate about fostering the next generation of organic farmers, we have supported 25 students with $5,000 toward their studies in organic agriculture.
This direct funding supports students with tuition, educational materials and resources, internships or work experience expenses, and any costs directly associated with their organic studies to further their career development. This year’s cohort is full of driven individuals who have a strong interest and commitment to a career in organic agriculture and span the country from Massachusetts to Hawaii. The majority are focused on farming mixed vegetables, tree fruit, and berries, and in addition to their studies, many are actively farming and plan to purchase farmland in the future. While the students come from varied backgrounds, they all share the same passion – to advance organic agriculture for a healthy world.
Future Organic Farmers are a future investment as they are willing, eager, and devoted to lifelong learning in the ways of organic agriculture. They bring new ideas, generational knowledge, and enthusiasm to the industry. As Shelia Wambui, a 2023 grantee, states, “I want to continue in those same footsteps [as my family] with the understanding that becoming an organic farmer can be challenging. It requires hard work, dedication, and a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. It is also a rewarding path that allows me to make a positive impact on the environment and provide healthy food for my loved one(s) and our community.” Her fellow cohort echoes a similar message. They are finding new and creative ways of establishing a healthy, conscious way of living and know organic agriculture is the answer and strive to make organic the norm.
Please join the CCOF Foundation in congratulating this year’s Future Organic Farmers grant recipients. Find out more about the Future Organic Farmers grant fund from the CCOF Foundation on our website!