You're Invited

You’re Invited

I’ve always enjoyed learning. Whether it’s in an academic, a professional or casual setting, broadening my knowledge brings me joy. There’s something about learning that also helps to create connections. Once you know more about a person or situation, it’s easier to put yourself in their shoes or relate to the situation in a more personal way.

Joining in conversations with others is a tangible example of how sharing knowledge and experiences creates meaningful connections. At the Iowa Food & Family Project (Iowa FFP), we focus on finding ways to create opportunities for consumers to ask questions and be curious when it comes to food, farming and agriculture.

At a recent Food U tour we hosted for members of our highly engaged Champions group, I experienced firsthand how learning and conversations can impact perceptions and behaviors. In the past, Food U has offered the Champions group the opportunity to tour places such as Center Grove Orchard, Latham

Hi-Tech Seeds, Jethro’s BBQ and numerous farms that grow and raise livestock and crops. As I listened to food and farming experts share their passion and knowledge, I saw on the participants’ faces how impressed and eager they were to soak up the information. I was just as interested as the participants were, and left the day feeling fulfilled and proud to be an Iowan where agriculture is celebrated every day in so many ways.

When we asked the Food U participants what piece of information should be shared with Iowa FFP’s audience, one participant responded, “I encourage everyone to look for opportunities to learn about and appreciate the connections each of us has to our local agriculture community.” This statement perfectly summarizes Iowa FFP’s goal in providing content and experiences, which increase confidence in the food you purchase and the farmers who provide it.

As we begin this new year, many are thinking about resolutions or goals. Iowa FFP would like to invite you to join our conversation! Let’s talk about how food is grown and raised, meet the farmers who are working day in and day out to make it happen, and celebrate all that Iowa has to offer.

We want to connect with you and learn what topics or questions you want us to dive deeper into through the pages of this magazine or our activities. Engage with us on social media, write a letter to the editor or find us at local events. Above all, we hope you resolve to be curious in this new year and never stop learning!

Enjoy the isue,

Submit a letter to the editor! Share how a story in Fresh Pickings magazine has inspired you to act, explore or try something new. If your letter is published, you’ll receive a $25 Hy-Vee gift card. iowafoodandfamily.com/magazine/letters