Michigan Young Farmer Coaltion

MISSION

MYFC works to empower Michigan communities through viable agricultural stewardship

As the average age of Michigan farmers has dramatically increased, the number of Michigan farmers has decreased. Michigan's food security and economic recovery is dependent on increasing the numbers of working, viable farmers in our state. We need more well-trained, well-educated young food producers with access to affordable land for a food-secure, sustainable future. We believe that this transformation of Michigan, food, ecology and economy requires honest communication and cooperation between and within generations.

We facilitate connections among beginning and young farmers and gardeners, food justice advocates, and others involved in food systems to build collaborative relationships and the capability to respond to current and future demands on our Michigan food system.

OUTREACH, SUPPORT & NETWORKING

OUTREACH

We believe in the power of forging long-term, meaningful relationships within and between the coalition and local communities. Individual strength can be multiplied when many individuals join together. We believe this connection can only be done through consistent efforts to reach out to diverse communities, practicing open communication, and fostering collaborative relationships with other organizations that share in our endeavor.

SUPPORT & NETWORKING

Now and for generations to come, our farming community must be able to rely on supportive local and regional networks. This is especially true for addressing the needs of young farmers in Michigan. As a statewide organization we recognize the need to maintain a diversity of tools that provide the types of support our members identify as imperative.

EDUCATION, LEARNING & TRAINING

EDUCATION & LEARNING

We believe that education is a vital part of our mission of empowerment. By providing learning opportunities and acting as educators, we better ensure that our members and local communities are able to make informed decisions, advocate for and affect change toward a sustainable, fair, local food system.

TRAINING & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

We will build internal leadership by offering hands-on training opportunities to build skills in group facilitation, organizational communication, and community organizing & advocacy. We will build skills in leadership directed outward (community-bound leadership) by creating and supporting opportunities for members to take direct action in their own communities. This will help our members build their resumes and will help us build shared ownership of the MYFC.

RESEARCH, REPORTING & ADVOCACY

ADVOCACY

The relationships we build within our organization can create political voice which allows the MYFC to influence opportunities and issues that directly affect our members and communities. We strive to raise awareness of the assets and challenges of young farmers in Michigan.

RESEARCH & REPORTING

We believe that research is important to maintaining an understanding of what is happening in our local communities and across the globe. In conducting our own research and making a commitment to being informed, we create a foundation on which to base current and future decisions. Research conducted by the MYFC will be participatory, action- and community-based, seeking to understand, share and benefit the social and ecological communities of which we are a part.

GET INVOLVED

DIG IN

Gather with other young/beginning farmers in your area to meet, eat, and connect as a regional hub
Organize Crop Mobs at your farm or community/school garden
Share resources, ideas, and reflections through our online & in-person networking opportunities

INTERSHIPS & VOLUNTEERING

If you have special skills in communications, fundraising, art/design, or community organizing...There are plenty of ways to contribute to the coalition! For students, we may be able to create a custom volunteer internship position for you.