Mark & Carol Stevenson's 
 Veterans Urban Farm

By Veterans, For Veterans

Mark and Carol Stevenson’s Veterans Urban Farm is a place for Veterans to benefit from the therapeutic, vocational, and recreational aspects of horticulture in a supportive, community-centered environment. The farm served as CCUA’s headquarters up until 2020 when it began serving Veterans.

At the Veterans Urban Farm, Truman VA Hospital Veterans have the opportunity to participate in vocational rehabilitation and recreational therapy programming. Program participants and community volunteers work to maintain the farm over the course of the growing season. Produce grown on-site is donated to local Veterans and used in health-focused programming at the VA Hospital. Community events and volunteer workdays on the farm create a healthy space for Veterans to gather and build community.

In 2022, the Veterans Urban Farm started a Veterans apprenticeship program. Paid apprentices work on-site for one growing season while learning a variety of urban farming skills. This program is open to all Veterans.

“Working at the Veterans farm has helped me to understand that there are other people who share the same struggles that I do. I don’t feel like I’m so alone in life anymore.”

-Veteran Participant

Programs We Offer

VA Transitional Work

We provide veterans with the opportunity to gain real-world work experience while they transition back into the workforce. It is designed for veterans who are in need of job skills training, offering structured work in a supportive environment. Through this program, veterans can develop or refresh their skills, build confidence, and receive income.
VA Work Study Student

This program is designed for veterans, reservists, and dependents using VA education benefits, such as the GI Bill, to pursue their education. This program allows eligible students to earn a tax-free income while working part-time in VA-related positions. Work-study opportunities typically include tasks at VA hospitals, educational institutions, and approved organizations like the Veterans Urban Farm, where participants can gain valuable work experience while maintaining flexible schedules that accommodate their coursework.
DoD Skillbridge

This a Department of Defense initiative that offers transitioning service members the chance to gain civilian work experience through internships or apprenticeships during their last 180 days of military service. The program connects service members with industry partners, allowing them to explore career opportunities and develop skills in various fields. SkillBridge provides hands-on experience while still on active duty, helping service members transition more smoothly into civilian careers at no cost to them or the employer.
Veteran Urban Farm Apprenticeship

This opportunity provides hands-on training in farming and gardening, supported by ARPA funding from the city. Each year, we host up to three apprentices for 140 hours of immersive experience. Apprentices learn sustainable agriculture practices, gain practical skills, and contribute to the farm’s mission of supporting local veterans and community food systems. This program offers a unique opportunity to explore careers in urban agriculture while making a meaningful impact.

The Warriors Garden

Over the course of 15 months long time CCUA volunteer, Billy Froeschner, led a dedicated crew of volunteers and CCUA staff to build a new accessible area at our Veterans Urban Farm. Today, the "Warriors Garden," a 3,000-square-foot accessible garden, stands strong providing wheelchair accessible garden beds, meeting space for program participants, a gathering place for the community, and so much more. Listen as Billy describes what the Warriors Garden means to him.

Student Veteran

Work-Study Program

Are you using your GI Bill Benefits to pursue your education? Looking for a flexible, part-time job that can fit around your class schedule?

Join us at the Veterans Urban Farm! You’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable experience while supporting our mission, all while balancing your academic commitments.

For more information on how to apply, feel free to reach out!