Connecting People to Michigan Agriculture
The Michigan Foundation for Agriculture (MFA) envisions a future where agriculture is valued by everyone. We believe that by fostering leadership and education, we can strengthen the vital connection between farms and communities.
What We Do
At the MFA, we are dedicated to connecting the broader community to Michigan's farms because we believe in the vital role of agriculture. Our efforts aim to make a significant impact on Michigan's agricultural landscape and the lives it touches.
The MFA positively contributes to the future of agriculture through the following initiatives:
We strive to help everyone understand and engage with farming through our agricultural literacy initiatives. By educating the public on where their food comes from, we build a more informed and connected society. With 66% of Michigan's citizens not having visited a farm in the last seven years, bridging the gap between farm and table is crucial.
Our iconic, fun, 40-foot mobile classrooms bring hands-on, STEM-based lessons to schools statewide. Since 2015, we've reached 2,327 teachers and 57,150 students, fostering a deeper connection to agriculture.
Delivering educational subscription boxes to K-5th grade classrooms, our FARM Crates include books, lesson plans, hands-on activities, and online content. With 2,560 teachers and 9,661 students reached since 2020, we're sowing the seeds of curiosity.
The FARM Science Van brings science lessons directly to schools, traveling from classroom-to-classroom to deliver hands-on experiences and agriculturally accurate resources.
Project R.E.D. (Rural Education Day) is designed to bring agriculture to school children in a field trip format, educating young students about how agriculture impacts their lives every day.
The future of Michigan agriculture relies on the leaders of tomorrow. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders through leadership programs, educational opportunities, and mentorship, empowering them to shape the future.
Our leadership program focuses on personal responsibility in farm leadership education, empowering individuals to take on leadership roles within the agricultural community.
From YF Awards and Discussion Meets to the Young Farmer Leaders Conference, we provide platforms for young farmers to develop leadership skills, connect with fellow farmers and contribute to the future of agriculture.
Our initiatives, including Discussion Meets, the Pail Program, and #SpeakAg, engage high school and college students, fostering leadership and communication skills.
Addressing childhood hunger is also a key part of our mission. By supporting hunger relief initiatives, we work towards ensuring every child has access to nutritious food, fostering healthier communities.
Our initiative to fight hunger, Harvest for All, focuses on providing food for those in need, contributing to a healthier and more secure future for Michigan communities.
Dedicated to addressing food insecurity, the Agent Charitable Fund plays a crucial role in supporting communities through charitable efforts.
Who We Are
Established in 2009 by the Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) board of directors, MFA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a singular purpose: to positively contribute to the future of Michigan agriculture through leadership and educational programming.
Rooted in the rich soil of Michigan's farming traditions, MFA has been a beacon of growth, education, and community building. As an integral part of Michigan Farm Bureau, we draw strength from the deep agricultural roots that have shaped our state.
Our generous supporters range from individuals to large corporations who share our vision. Join us in cultivating a sustainable and vibrant future for Michigan agriculture.
Contact
Please direct your questions to the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture Development Manager Kate Thiel via email or by calling (517) 679-5741.
Testimonials
Kaitlin Fusilier, Michigan Soybean Committee and MFA Advisory Committee member.
Leona Daniels, farmer and MFA Advisory Committee member.
Pat McGuire, farmer and MFA Board member.