Welcome to The Locavore Farm Project
Since 2015, The Locavore Farm Project has been a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth development and mental well-being through immersive experiences with nature and farm-based learning. Founded on the belief that connecting with the land can profoundly impact young people, our programs focus on growth, resilience, and fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Our project is deeply personal. As adoptive and foster parents to two wonderful children with a history in the child welfare system, we have witnessed the powerful healing that comes from connecting young people with meaningful work, fresh air, and supportive relationships. The Locavore Farm Project isn’t only for children with a background in foster care; it’s designed to nurture all youth, especially those affected by the mental and emotional challenges common in today’s digital age. The statistics are staggering: nearly 20% of children and young people in the U.S. struggle with a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder. In the decade before 2019, high school students’ suicidal behaviors increased by over 40%, reflecting the severe mental health crisis affecting today’s youth.
Yet there is hope. Research consistently shows that nature brings significant psychological benefits, from improving cognitive function to boosting emotional resilience, stress regulation, and creativity. Our programs at The Locavore Farm Project leverage the farm as a therapeutic setting, where youth can unplug, experience the rhythm of life on the land, and participate in hands-on, purposeful activities.
Mission Statement
The Locavore Farm Project exists to nurture the mental, emotional, and spiritual health of youth, from birth to age 17, by connecting them to the healing power of nature and meaningful work on the farm. Through hands-on experiences, community support, and guidance in land stewardship, we offer youth a space for growth, resilience, and connection beyond the challenges of the digital age.
Vision Statement
We envision a future where all youth, including those facing trauma or mental health challenges, find refuge, purpose, and healing in nature. Through our land-based programs, The Locavore Farm Project will foster strong, resilient young people equipped with life skills, environmental awareness, and a deep sense of community, creating a sustainable, supportive space for future generations.
Not-for-Profit Standing and Support Information
The Locavore Farm Project operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, recognized by the IRS and committed to transparency. We are listed on Charity Navigator under EIN 47-3760757, where supporters can view our profile and see how contributions make a direct impact. Every donation supports our mission to empower youth and build a strong, resilient community through nature and agriculture.
Get Involved on Giving Tuesday – December 3
This Giving Tuesday, December 3, join us in supporting the next generation by helping The Locavore Farm Project grow its impact. Your contribution will go directly toward enhancing our youth programs and expanding our capacity to offer meaningful, healing experiences to even more children and teens. Current funding needs building-out a fully-equipped demonstration and classroom kitchen, increasing therapy livestock, and securing a 15-passenger van for transportation. We also aim to complete essential earth and land-work on our five-acre homestead, and we’re seeking support for day-camp and workshop supplies. Every gift helps us bring the restorative power of nature to young people in need, fostering a place for growth, resilience, and connection. Reach out to Rachael Jones for more details.
Together, we can create a sustainable, nurturing community for our youth—where they can grow, heal, and find a place of belonging. Thank you for believing in a brighter future for our youth!
