Land, Agriculture, and
Community-Based Food Systems
Embark on an exploration of agriculture and community impact with us as we explore regenerative and indigenous farming techniques in creating health, community, and sustainability.
Blight to Bloom: Cultivating Hope
This year, Thriving Communities Films is spotlighting three organizations in the U.S. leading the way in regenerative and indigenous farming. These films will premiere at Gathering 2023.
Regenerative and Indigenous Farming Practices
Indigenous and regenerative farming are both sustainable agriculture methods. Indigenous farming is based on traditional knowledge and focuses on local ecological conditions and cultural values. Regenerative farming draws on indigenous practices and aims to optimize soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem management.
Both ways offer solutions to modern agriculture challenges and there is a growing recognition of the importance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge into regenerative farming for more sustainable and equitable food systems.
Making A Positive Community Impact
Through their innovative agricultural practices and unwavering commitment to their communities, the organizations we are filming this year, demonstrate the power of regenerative farming to transform the food system and create a more just and sustainable world.
2023 Films in Focus
Rid-All Green Partnership in Cleveland, Ohio: Rid-All is an urban farm that uses regenerative farming practices to produce fresh, healthy food for the local community while also creating jobs and promoting education and training. https://ridall.org/
Spirit Farm in Vanderwagon, New Mexico: Spirit Farm is a regenerative farm that works with the Navajo Nation to restore the soil and revive traditional agricultural practices, while also providing fresh food and economic opportunities for local residents. https://covenantpathways.org/
Organic Farm School in Clinton, Washington: The Organic Farm School is a non-profit organization that trains new farmers in regenerative farming practices, while also producing fresh, healthy food for the local community and promoting sustainable agriculture. https://organicfarmschool.org/
By highlighting the stories of these organizations through film and other mediums, we aim to inspire and educate others on the potential of regenerative farming to improve community health, build resilience, and promote social and environmental justice.
We invite you to learn more about these organizations and the benefits of regenerative farming for community food security and sustainability.
Randy McShepard, Co-Founder and
G. Keymah Durden III, Co-Founder of Rid-All Green Partnership in Cleveland, Ohio.
A Community Success Story
The Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative (DSNI) in Boston stands as a testament to the power of community-based environmental justice and sustainable development. One of the pillars upon which this initiative was built is the legacy of Gus Newport, who served as a director of DSNI and later contributed his wisdom as a board member of Thriving Communities until his passing in 2023. During his tenure at DSNI, Newport played a key role in spearheading the development of community gardens, parks, and green spaces, while also laying the groundwork for sustainable transportation and energy practices that the initiative has carried forward since 1993.
DSNI's work has empowered residents to take ownership of their neighborhoods and prioritize their needs and values. DSNI is another example of a sustainable and resilient community.
Learn More About Regenerative Agriculture
To learn more about regenerative agriculture and community health, we've compiled a list of resources and links that you might find helpful:
Regeneration International: A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting regenerative agriculture and building a sustainable food system. Their website features a wealth of information on regenerative farming practices and their benefits. https://regenerationinternational.org/
Regenerative Agriculture Alliance: A network of farmers, researchers, and advocates working to promote regenerative agriculture and build resilient communities. https://www.regenagalliance.org/
The Rodale Institute: A research organization that conducts studies on regenerative farming and soil health, while also offering resources and training for farmers. https://rodaleinstitute.org/
Black Farmers and Regenerative Agriculture: https://www.greenamerica.org/communities-frontlines-climate-crisis/unearthing-legacy-black-farmers
Indigenous Farming Practices and Regenerative Agriculture: https://nfu.org/2020/10/12/the-indigenous-origins-of-regenerative-agriculture/
Regenerative Agriculture Podcast: A podcast that features interviews with farmers, researchers, and other experts on regenerative agriculture and its impact on food security, community health, and the environment. https://regenerativeagriculturepodcast.com/
We encourage you to explore these resources and learn more about the transformative power of regenerative farming for community food security and sustainability. Join us in cultivating hope and growing a healthier future for all!