Rodale Institute, Agriculture Supported Communities

Rodale Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to growing the regenerative organic agriculture movement through rigorous research, farmer training, and education. Our groundbreaking science and direct farmer-support programs serve as a catalyst for change in farming and food production worldwide. Over our 75-year history, we have proven that organic farming is not only viable, but essential to humanity’s survival. Rodale Institute confronts one of the world’s greatest challenges: creating a resilient global food system that improves human health and the environment. Our mission is to advance groundbreaking research and best-in-class education that enables farms and farmers to transition to regenerative organic agricultural practices, thereby improving the health of the world’s soil and securing the global food supply. Rodale Institute envisions a changed world where agricultural products are produced in a regenerative organic manner and the metrics of success are measured against the health of people and the planet. Rodale Institute has a new strategic plan to guide our growth for the next five years. Since 1947, Rodale Institute has taken the lead in developing a better, natural, and more responsible way of modern farming by conducting research into the cultivation of healthy, living soils. Rodale Institute is home to the longest-running side-by-side comparison of organic vs. conventional farming practices (our Farming Systems Trial, started in 1981), and our research focus areas include developing organic solutions to pests, disease and weeds, mitigating and adapting to extreme weather, and growing nutrient dense foods. Learn more about our science Our Research has Proven that Organic Systems: Producecompetitive yieldsafter a transition period Yield up to40% higherthan conventional in times of drought Earn3-6X greater profitsfor farmers Improve soil healthand build soil organic matter over time Release40% fewercarbon emissions The organic market is quickly growing, and yet only 1% of U.S. farmland is certified organic. That’s why education is a key component of our work. Some ways we work with farmers include: Our trained agronomists work one-on-one with farmers transitioning to organic. Farmer Training Programs With specialized programs for veterans and beginning farmers, we’re training the next generation of organic growers. Workshops, webinars & events We offer both e-learning and hands-on opportunities year-round. Learn More About Farmer Training The organic movement isn’t possible without the consumer: everyday eaters and families demanding organic for their health and for the planet. That’s why we focus on consumer education—helping people understand“Why Organic?”—including what organic agriculture is, how it relates to issues likehuman healthandclimate change, and ultimately, how to have a positive impact with theirdaily actions. One way you’ll see us in the consumer marketplace is through the new Regenerative Organic Certification, a new high-bar food and fiber label that includes soil health, animal welfare and worker fairness. Our founder, J.I. Rodale, was an entrepreneur from New York City who struggled with health problems all his life. One day, he wrote these words on a chalkboard: “Healthy Soil = Healthy Food = Healthy People.” In 1940, he bought a rundown farm in Pennsylvania and began to experiment with a way of growing food without chemicals that he coined “organic.” There, he founded the Soil and Health Foundation in 1947—what is known as Rodale Institute today. Learn More About Rodale Institute Employment & Internships Whether you volunteer with us, take a tour of our campus, or visit us at a farmers market, you're helping us grow the regen