The Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Operation Grow program was recognized by the Auburn Veterans Resource Center with the 2024 Vanguard Award Nov. 1. The award recognizes Operation Grow’s impact on veterans and their families in Alabama.
Operation Grow provides training to military veterans interested in getting started in the agriculture industry for both health and employment. Training events include the Operation Grown Boot Camp—an in-person and hands-on training—Operation Grow Connect—a virtual event—demos day for equipment training, and county-based events organized by county Extension coordinators and regional Extension agents.
Ayanava Majumdar, program coordinator, said there are more than 189 veterans registered and 72 percent are beginning veteran farmers. Experienced veterans in the program serve as mentors to new farmers.
“Operation Grow uses the training-network-and-support model to engage veterans intending to start a farming operation in Alabama,” Majumdar said. “Through our multiple grassroots Extension teams—consisting of many county Extension coordinators, regional Extension agents, and other community resource partners—the Operation Grow program currently provides individualized support to increase employment opportunities and strengthen our local food system.”
Operation Grow is a partnership program between Alabama Extension, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, and the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs. Majumdar said the program is always launching new initiatives. Interested farmers can check www.Operation-Grow.com for more information. Operation Grow also accepts program support donations. Visit the support page to donate.
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