Living with chronic disease is a constant and often unseen struggle for many. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, depression, liver disease and bipolar disorder can bring on debilitating symptoms like fatigue, sleeplessness, anxiety and frustration. Managing these challenges daily can be an overwhelming and isolating experience.
To help address those challenges, USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) supports programs across the country making it possible for individuals with disabilities to work in agriculture.
A chronic disease management webinar series led by the University of Illinois and a Farm Boot Camp run by the University of Georgia (UGA) exemplify proactive and transformative initiatives designed to bolster the health and success of individuals in the agricultural sector. These programs deliver critical resources, comprehensive training and unwavering support, empowering farmers and veterans to surmount challenges and excel in their agricultural pursuits. By providing these essential tools, they ensure participants are well-equipped to achieve their aspirations and drive progress within the agricultural community.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the agricultural community, the University of Illinois and Illinois AgrAbility underscores the importance of proactive agricultural health and safety. To address this, they launched the "Take Charge of Your Health: Chronic Disease Self-Management" webinar series. This six-week program aims to deliver essential support and resources to those in the agriculture industry. The expanded weekly topics cover vital areas such as fall prevention, improved breathing techniques, effective collaboration with healthcare professionals and developing action plans for problem-solving and decision-making.
In a parallel effort to bolster the agricultural community, UGA secured federal funding to train military veterans in launching their own farms. The Farm Boot Camp program provides free monthly training sessions and specialized workshops for veterans and their spouses. Backed by a $750,000 grant from USDA NIFA, this initiative is part of the broader Farm Again program, dedicated to empowering veterans and enhancing their agricultural careers.
Farm Boot Camp emerged in response to the increasing demand from veterans seeking support through AgrAbility, a Farm Again initiative that offers worksite accommodations and technology for farmers facing disabilities or health challenges. This program is designed to provide veterans with the essential knowledge, resources and networks to thrive in agricultural careers.
Kyle Haney, a rural health manager in the UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences, manages much of the program's daily operations.
"As more veteran farmers and ranchers with disabilities reached out to AgrAbility, it became clear that a specialized program was necessary to boost their chances of success," said Mason Dean, AgrAbility's service coordinator.
The Farm Boot Camp launched in April 2024 with a tractor safety training session led by UGA Extension's state safety specialist. This session provided participants with vital skills and hands-on experience in machinery operation. "Hands-on learning is irreplaceable, especially with farm machinery," said Glen Rains, Georgia AgrAbility project director. "These one-day workshops offer new veteran farmers intensive training to build their confidence in working independently."
Farm Boot Camp collaborates with several farms to deliver hands-on workshops in various specialized areas. Doc’s Healing Hives in north Georgia, led by a veteran, offers beekeeping training, while Mushroom Mountain in South Carolina focuses on mushroom cultivation. The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences conducts in-house sessions on vegetable and beef production. Additionally, participants receive legal assistance from the UGA Veterans Legal Clinic and marketing support through the Farmer Veteran Coalition's Homegrown by Heroes program.
Cody Stonecypher, a Marine Corps veteran and one of the first Farm Boot Camp participants, now runs a thriving blueberry farm in Eastman, Georgia. He praises the program for its practical knowledge and ongoing support, stating, "Every workshop I've attended has provided valuable insights that have directly contributed to the growth of my farm business."
Haney plans to train 200 participants over the next three years, encouraging veterans and their spouses to engage in annual programming to enhance their knowledge and explore various interests. With sustained support from the USDA and other partners, Farm Boot Camp is committed to empowering future generations of veterans in agriculture, ensuring they have the necessary tools and resources for long-term success.
For more information about these programs and how to participate, visit the Illinois AgrAbility and UGA Farm Again websites.