Geared to beginning farmer training programs, apprentice programs, incubator farms and other organizations that support sustainable farmers, our FIELD Network webinars bring together experts in our fields to share their knowledge, experience and ideas. This webinar series is open to members of New Entry’s National FIELD Network. If you’re interested in joining, please contact Colleen Hanley, colleen.hanley@tufts.edu!
Transitioning to a JEDI-Centered Culture with EarthDance Organic Farm School
November 12 @ 2:00pm-3:30pm EST
In response to participant feedback and through ongoing justice, equity, diversity, & inclusion work, EarthDance Organic Farm School has transitioned its land-based Farm & Garden Apprenticeship from a tuition-based educational experience into a paid, full-season farmer training program. This session shares lessons learned, practical strategies, and insights for organizations exploring similar transitions.
Over the past several years, EarthDance Organic Farm School has transformed its land-based apprenticeship from a part-time, tuition-based educational experience into a paid, full-season farmer training program. The change grew from listening to participants, recognizing that apprentices contribute meaningful work while they learn, and adapting to the realities of today’s farming and funding landscapes.
As a follow-up to EarthDance’s presentation at the FIELD School in October, this webinar will explore EarthDance’s programmatic overhaul more deeply, detailing tough conversations that enabled the farm school to design more equitable programs for their farming and gardening communities. Participants will learn EarthDance’s strategies to proactively create program implementation practices guided by justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Current apprentices will join the conversation to share their experiences and reflections on JEDI practices impacting their farming journey.
Attending FIELD School is not a requirement for attending this webinar
Key Takeaways
- Strategies to move from a tuition-based apprenticeship to a paid training program.
- Balancing meaningful education with the realities of running a working farm.
- Tools to integrate participant feedback to shape stronger farmer training programs.
- Assessing realistic changes with limited staff and budgets.
- How can we learn from BIPOC stewardship & leadership and the experiences of diverse farming communities in order to be better, kinder stewards of the resources within our reach?
- How do we continue improving our programs, working toward equity and justice, as our participants, communities, and agricultural landscape continue to evolve and teach us new things?
- What a deeper understanding of history can teach us.
Speakers
Tiffany Brewer, Director of Impact, brings 7 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, program development, and organizational management. She helps guide strategic planning, operations, partnerships, and community-centered initiatives that advance regenerative agriculture and food security.
Jess Coffin, Program Manager & Orchard Steward, brings 10 years of experience in program management and community-centered program development, overseeing educational programming and participant engagement. They are in their fifth year of farming in community with the land, with experience in production, storytelling, and program co-facilitation. They also co-steward the EarthDance orchard.
Interested in hosting a FIELD Webinar?
Bring new resources, expertise, and ideas to our unique community of incubator farms, apprenticeship programs, and other land-based farmer training programs. Email Colleen.hanley@tufts.edu today.
This webinar series is open to members of New Entry’s National FIELD Network. If you’re interested in joining, please contact Colleen Hanley, colleen.hanley@tufts.edu!