Mission
Farmers Rising builds sustainable local food and farm systems through experiential education and training programs in partnership with rural and urban people.
Vision
We envision a dynamic and enduring partnership between farmers and consumers who strive for economies, ecologies, and cultures that respect the land and honor the people who work it, know healthy food as a human right, celebrate the beauty and mysteries of life and the living earth, encourage authenticity and self-reliance and cooperation, and are sustainable over many generations.
oRGANIZATIONAL OBJECTIVES:
Our primary organizational objectives include:
- Practicing and teaching sustainable and regenerative farming;
- Building a collaborative and supportive farmer community;
- Teaching holistic farm finance and business skills;
- Expanding access to land and locally grown food;
- Developing a vibrant, creative community centered around local food;
- Advocating for policy change that prioritizes small, diversified farmers;
- Connecting our farmers to market outlets;
- Demonstrating to farmers and eaters how sustainable and regenerative farming impacts the climate and natural resources; and
- Creating and strengthening supportive partnerships to broaden impact.
Strategic Directions
In early 2021, Farmers Rising underwent a collaborative strategic planning process involving all staff and board members. Our in-depth and impactful process resulted in the following four strategic goals to guide our work for the coming year.
Dismantling Oppressive Systems and Practices
Even with the best intentions, processes and practices are in place--both internal and external--that limit participation from people in divested communities. We commit to identifying and reducing barriers to our programming to ensure full, equal participation in and benefit from all that we offer.
Investing in Our Staff, Board and Spaces
Our mission can only be achieved when our staff and board members are equipped and empowered with fitting and inspiring spaces to work and create in. We are re-centering our focus to invest in these three things so that we have the collective strength and power to inspire change.
Re-Conceptualizing Our Resource Development
The pandemic changed the way people interact with one another and the causes they care about, presenting opportunities to change how we cultivate our resources. Our fund development team has embraced community centric fundraising principles and we are innovating with new ways to encourage individual giving, increase earned income and connect with our community members to forge deeper relationships.
Revitalizing and Renewing our Core Partnerships and Brand
Our organization has thrived thanks to deep-rooted partnerships throughout the region. Our relationship with the community around us informs how we create impactful programming that meets the needs of our stakeholders. We are renewing our dedication to these relationships while strategizing how to extend our reach to all those who can benefit from our programs.
