Jonathan Garcia is a CCOF Future Organic Farmers Grantee.
Jonathan Garcia is pursuing a degree in Agricultural Plant Science at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), San Luis Obispo. “As a first-generation college student, I’m proud to show my family their sacrifices were worth it and to set an example for my younger siblings,” he says. “My dream is to become a farmer and focus on organic and sustainable practices.”
Growing up, Garcia watched his mother turn their small backyard into a thriving garden, where she taught him the value of growing his own food. Later, Garcia was inspired by the words of his seventh-grade science teacher: “Without farmers, we have no food, and without food, we have no future.”
“That stuck with me,” Garcia says. “I want to use what I learn to care for the land, give back to my community, and help create a future where healthy food is grown responsibly and made accessible to all.”
Studying Agricultural Plant Sciences gives Garcia the skills and knowledge to turn his passion for farming into a successful career, and he leverages the opportunity to be an active part of his community. He has served as an officer in his school’s Young Farmers and Ranchers club, as well as participating in industry tours where he studies agricultural issues, operations, and policy.
“As I learn more about soil health, crop management, and sustainable practices, I see how much care and thought go into growing food the right way,” he says. “Organic farming isn’t just about what we grow. It’s about protecting the land, improving food quality, and supporting the community. These lessons are helping me shape the kind of farmer I want to be: someone who combines science with a deep respect for the environment and works to provide healthy food for others.”
Garcia is passionate about working in the organic sector not only to grow food in a sustainable way, but to support his community. “Organic farming isn’t just about crops; it’s about creating a healthy environment for the future. I want to use what I’ve learned at Cal Poly to develop practices that help the land thrive, while also benefiting the people who rely on it,” he says. “My vision is to farm with a focus on regenerative methods that restore ecosystems, reduce synthetic chemicals, and support biodiversity. But it doesn’t stop there — I also want to share what I know with my community, helping others grow their own food and understand why organic farming matters for both our health and the planet.”
The CCOF Foundation is proud to support producers like Jonathan Garcia with the Future Organic Farmers grant, which gives $5,000 scholarships to college and vocational students training for careers in organic agriculture.
If you would like to contribute to the success of Future Organic Farmers grantees like Jonathan Garcia, please contact the CCOF Foundation’s Donor Relations Manager Shawna Rodgers, srodgers@ccof.org to learn more.
