Military veterans across the state who wish to pursue a career in food, farming and agriculture have new opportunities to advance their careers through the establishment of a statewide coalition.
The Farmer Veteran Coalition of Illinois is the 10th chapter of a national organization that cultivates a new generation of farmers and food leaders and develops viable employment and meaningful careers through the collaboration of the farming and military communities.
Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) is celebrating the opportunities and resources it will bring to those who have served our country.
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Illinois. It has been over five years of hard work from individuals and organizations across the state,” said Raghela Scavuzzo, Associate Director of Food Systems Development, IFB.
“This is a huge opportunity to help veterans, agriculture and rural communities.”
A press conference was held to formally launch the program on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019. It took place in the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago during the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.
National Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) founder Michael O’Gorman presented during the program, explaining the connection between state coalitions and the national organization.
“Veterans possess unique skills and character needed to strengthen rural communities and create sustainable food systems. Agriculture offers purpose, opportunity, and physical and psychological benefits to our veterans,” said O’Gorman.
“The vision for state coalitions is to connect the talent and experience state organizations have in leadership skills and agricultural expertise with farmer veterans whom the FVC has identified as potentially needing such assistance.”
The inauguration of the Illinois Farmer Veteran Coalition is an important addition to Illinois Farm Bureau’s collaborative efforts to serve military veterans desiring to pursue food, farming and agricultural careers.
In 2015, Illinois Farm Bureau partnered with the Illinois Department of Agriculture and other agencies across the state to launch the Homegrown By Heroes program. Homegrown By Heroes provides resources in a number of areas, including:
Farmer training
Farmers’ markets opportunities and partnerships
Assisting veterans in developing value-added products
Fostering relationships with retailers and food service organizations
Making resources available for veterans wishing to raise livestock & commodity crops
Developing mentorships between experienced farmers and veterans
Identifying community land access
“It is an honor to be the 10th state chapter in the country. We cannot wait to begin implementing new programs, gaining membership, developing resources and strengthening the Homegrown by Heroes program,” said Scavuzzo.
“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country and we look forward to helping them advance their careers in any way we can.”
Additional information on the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Illinois can be found here.