“Train a Vet, Your Food is Set: Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Agriculture”
“Train a Vet, Your Food is Set: Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Agriculture”
Our comprehensive training model transforms participants into agricultural leaders through a structured pathway that builds both farming skills and business acumen. Based at our flagship Garden Education Center at Veterans Haven North in Glen Gardner, NJ, we provide hands-on experience in sustainable farming practices while developing the entrepreneurial mindset needed for agricultural success.
Our program has evolved over three years of progressive development, refining our approach to create effective agricultural leaders. Starting with basic gardening instruction, we've developed a comprehensive curriculum that addresses both practical farming skills and business acumen.
Our team includes experienced agricultural professionals and combat veterans who understand both the technical aspects of farming and the unique strengths veterans bring to agriculture. Through our network of partnerships, we provide 640 hours of comprehensive education and technical training.
Our flagship Garden Education Center at Veterans Haven North demonstrates how institutional partnerships can create innovative land access solutions. This model provides valuable experience in navigating partnerships that can be replicated in participants' home communities.
Local Food Heroes don't just learn to farm—they become agricultural leaders who strengthen food security in their communities. Our program creates pathways for participants to address food access challenges while building sustainable agricultural enterprises.
“I never imagined that gardening could be both a beautiful, contemplative sight, and be a useful tool in helping struggling veterans. The kitchen staff are excited to use the fresh vegetables from the garden, and everyone from the veterans all the way to the maintenance staff have been amazed by the progress.”
– Erika Wacaster, Counselor, Veterans Haven North
“I never imagined that gardening could be both a beautiful, contemplative sight, and be a useful tool in helping struggling veterans. The kitchen staff are excited to use the fresh vegetables from the garden, and everyone from the veterans all the way to the maintenance staff have been amazed by the progress.”
– Erika Wacaster, Counselor, Veterans Haven North
Veteran Farmer Training
As a Local Food Hero, you’ll join a growing community of agricultural leaders making real impact in their communities. Whether you’re seeking a new career path, looking to develop valuable skills, or passionate about addressing food security challenges, we invite you to grow with us.
No! Our tiered program begins with foundational knowledge and skills. We welcome participants at all experience levels.
While we prioritize veteran participation, our program is open to community members who share our commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security.
Our flagship Garden Education Center is at Veterans Haven North in Glen Gardner, NJ. As we grow, we're developing satellite locations to serve more communities.
Our program is offered free of charge to veterans. Community members may participate through a free-will donation model that supports program development.
Our program includes strategies for land access through partnerships and alternative models. We help participants identify and develop opportunities in their communities.
The time commitment varies based on your level of participation:
Workshop Program:
Our program is supported through a combination of grants, partnerships, and donations. We're developing sustainable funding models that include specialty crop production and educational programming.
Tye’s House Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible. ©2025