As we celebrate Earth Month this April, we reflect on the lasting impact of our work in organic and the countless farmers, community leaders, and supporters who make it all possible. Guided by the wisdom of our farming roots, the CCOF Foundation unites the organic community to offer intentional education, financial support, and growth opportunities for organic professionals.
Through these efforts, we’re not just shaping the future of farming—we’re protecting the land, safeguarding our communities, and fostering a healthier world. We invite you to join us in this movement.
Here’s how your support of the CCOF Foundation creates lasting change:
Growing the Next Generation – The Future Organic Farmers program has awarded nearly $1.2 million in scholarships, helping students and beginning farmers step into organic agriculture and build a strong future for organic food.
Supporting Farmers in Times of Need – Our Hardship Assistance Fund is the only national program providing direct financial relief exclusively to certified organic farmers facing wildfires, floods, and other extreme weather impacts. We have awarded more than $4.6 million in aid to help over 600 organic ranchers and farmers recover and rebuild.
“The hardship funds enabled us to continue our organic operation for another year! We remain committed to implementing sustainable practices and regenerative ag techniques to become more resilient to weather events.”
Farmer Education and Technical Assistance Resources – Our low-and no-cost education, technical assistance, and mentorship programs help farmers and organic professionals learn key skills for their operations’ success. The CCOF Foundation provides resources, mentorship, and custom training that supports the organic community during pivotal times, helping businesses grow and strengthen themselves through ongoing professional development.
Breaking Barriers to Organic Transition – The CCOF Foundation’s Organic Transitions Program (OTP) support ($10,000 a year for three, consecutive years), along with 1:1 technical assistance, mentorship, and community building with their peers. To date, the CCOF Foundation has awarded more than $1.8 million in transition grants through the OTP. In addition, the CCOF Foundation leads the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s West/Southwest Regional Center for Organic Transition through the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). This program connects more than 50 partner organizations, service providers, and higher education institutions across seven states to support farmers transitioning to organic.
TOPP Success Story: Christie Heartquist
When Christie Heartquist first considered organic certification, the paperwork felt overwhelming. Through TOPP, she was paired with mentor Sara Dolan, who provides real-time, practical guidance every step of the way.
Since starting Heartquist Hollow Family Farm in 2018, Christie and her family have grown a thriving operation raising sheep, heritage pigs, and beef cattle, selling to their community each weekend and now nationwide through their federally inspected facility.
With TOPP support, she is moving toward organic certification with confidence. For farmers like Christie, TOPP mentorship helps overcome barriers like paperwork, cost, and limited organic knowledge, turning the goal of organic certification into reality.
Your donation to the CCOF Foundation ensures that organic farmers have the resources, training, and financial support
With your help, we can continue to support the farmers who are making an impact in organic agriculture and growing a healthier future for our communities, families, and future generations. By investing in organic farmers, you’re supporting healthy soil, clean water, and thriving rural economies. This Earth Month, let’s keep creating a healthier world—farm by farm, community by community.