The Farm & Food Systems Fellowship, based in Crystal Lake, IL, is dedicated to nurturing a new generation of advocates for a fair, sustainable food system. Our program empowers Fellows through comprehensive, hands-on training at our Allegheny Farm Campus, where they learn about organic farming practices, food systems education, and community engagement without the burden of tuition fees, ensuring accessibility for all participants. Throughout this transformative six-month fellowship, Fellows will cultivate and distribute diverse crops, run educational initiatives in healthcare, manage school and community gardens, and enhance food literacy within educational settings. They are also involved in supporting local farmers markets and improving direct access to healthy food options, ultimately fostering community-led food coalition efforts. After their intensive training, Fellows enter a Community Action Year, where they apply their skills in collaboration with regional non-profits to create lasting impacts. Applications are welcomed annually until March, with the fellowship experience typically spanning from May to October.