Connecting vets to farms: Nonprofit helps next generation of veterans

WILKINSON, Ind. — Joe Ricker founded Veterans IN Farming to provide veterans with practical training, skills and support to succeed on a farm or agribusiness.

His advice to veterans interested in a career on the farm? Find a mentor and start small.

“Mentors and organizations are a great way to connect veterans to opportunities,” he said. “I recommend to start small if they’ve never done it before. Don’t start with 50 cows. Start with a couple.

“And make sure the market is there for what you’re growing. It’s a large investment if you really want to make a business out of it.

“Of the 10 things I wanted to try on my farm, only about five of them worked out.”

It’s free to become a member of Veterans IN Farming. Once they join, members can learn through workshops, coaching, conferences and networking.

The nonprofit partners with three farms to hold classes on everything from soil health to beekeeping.

It also works with organizations such as Hoosier Uplands and AgrAbility to provide resources for disabled veterans.

When asked why he does it, Ricker said it is to help the next generation of vets.

“I like to continue the service of helping veterans,” he said. “I did it for 30 years in the Army, helping soldiers get to the next level. In retirement, I think I just want to continue that.”

Learn more at https://vetsinfarming.wildapricot.org.