PROGRAMS

�� What’s New at VUF?

��️ New Volunteer Opportunity – Help Build Our Veterans Resource Center!

Starting April 2nd, we’re launching a new volunteer shift to help remodel our brand-new Veterans Resource Center building and yard. This space will be a hub for resources, community, and support—but first, we need helping hands to bring it to life! ��

��‍♂️ Led by two incredible veterans:
✨ Billy Froeschner – The mastermind behind our Warriors Garden, who dedicated a year of volunteer shifts to make it happen and was recognized by state officials for his service to veterans.
✨ Teddy Locastro – One of our most treasured veterans, who has been with Veterans Urban Farm since our inception in 2020.

Join Billy and Teddy as they teach new skills, build camaraderie, and create something meaningful for our veteran community and the farm!

�� Apply to become a volunteer here: Join the team! or email  Volunteer@ColumbiaUrbanAg.org  

Programs Open for Enrollment!

�� Veterans Apprenticeship Program – Learn to Farm!

For veterans interested in agriculture, sustainability, or just enjoy getting their hands in the dirt, our apprenticeship program is an amazing opportunity to gain real skills in farming and food production. 

Job Description here

�� Apply here

�� VA Work Study Student Program

Are you, or a veteran you know, using VA education benefits? We have openings for VA Work Study Students at VUF! Gain hands-on farming experience while working part-time while you are in school. Flexible scheduling to accommodate student needs. (Flier attached)

�� To learn more, email Crystal@ColumbiaUrbanAg.org 

Save the Date – Upcoming VUF Events & Workshops! 

�� Spring Kickoff & VUF's 5th Year Celebration

��️ April 23rd | 4–7 PM
�� Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith Street, Columbia, MO)
Join us as we celebrate five years of growing, learning, and building community at Veterans Urban Farm! Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just getting started, there’s something for everyone!

�� Event Highlights:

  • �� Seeding Workshop – Learn how to start your own garden from scratch!

  • �� Seed & Start Giveaway – Take home free seeds and leftover plant starts!

  • �� Yard Games & Refreshments – Enjoy a laid-back evening with farm-friendly fun.

  • �� Farm Tours – Get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes VUF special.

  • �� Art Therapy Activities – Creative expression for mental health (for adults and kids).

Calling All Veteran & Agricultural Organizations!
We’d love to have you join us to share your programs and resources with our community. This is a great opportunity to connect with veterans and urban agriculture enthusiasts!
�� Spring Kickoff RSVP

��️ Memorial Day Celebration

��️ May 27th | 4–7 PM
�� Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith Street, Columbia, MO)
Join us for a meaningful Memorial Day celebration as we come together to honor and remember our fallen veterans.

��️ Event Highlights: 

  • ��️ Veteran Dedication Ceremony – A moment to honor those we’ve lost.

  • �� Community Resource Booths – Connecting veterans with local support.

  • �� BBQ & Cooking Experience – Fire up the grill and cook together!

  • �� Yard Games & Good Company – A day of connection and camaraderie.

  • �� Farm Fresh Produce Giveaway – Take home a taste of the season!

  • �� Art Therapy Activities – Creative expression for mental health (for adults and kids)

Calling All Veteran Organizations!

We’d love to have you join us in solidarity for our nation's heroes. All gave some, some gave all. 

�� Memorial Day Celebration RSVP

�� Feeding Veterans: Mind, Body, Soul – 4th Annual Event

��️ June 17th | 4–7 PM
�� Columbia Farmers Market (1769 W Ash St, Columbia, MO, 65203)

This event is all about connection, support, and holistic wellness for our veteran community.

✨ Event Features:

  • �� Yoga & Tai Chi – Movement for mindfulness and well-being.

  • �� Cooking Demonstrations – Learn to nourish your body with farm-fresh food.

  • �� Service Dog Demonstrations – See the power of trained companions.

  • �� Art Therapy Activities – Creative expression for mental health (for adults and kids).

  • �� Farm Fresh Produce Giveaway – Take home a taste of the season!

  • �� 23 Veteran Service Organizations – Sharing resources & strengthening the community.

�� Exciting News!
The Missouri Veterans & Armed Forces Committee took notice of last year’s success, and we’ve been invited to speak about our impact at the State Capitol on April 28th! 

Calling All Veteran & Community Organizations!
We’d love for you to set up a booth and share your resources. This is a chance to connect with veterans, collaborate with other organizations, and be part of something big and beautiful.
�� Feeding Veterans: Mind, Body, Soul - RSVP

Are you or someone you know interested in beekeeping but unsure where to start? We’re excited to invite you to:

Buzz Talks—a monthly bee club hosted by CCUA and led by experienced beekeeper and long-time CCUA volunteer, Jim Thaxter!

Each session will provide an engaging, hands-on workshop where attendees can learn the basics of beekeeping, ask questions, and gain practical knowledge in a supportive environment.

Workshop Details:

📅 Once a month | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

  • March 18th: Inside the Hive: Bee Castes, Nest Organization, and Anatomy– CCUA’s Schoolhouse (1769 W Ash St)
  • April 15th: The Beekeeper’s Toolbox: Equipment, Hive Construction, and Bee Behavior – CCUA’s Schoolhouse (1769 W Ash St)
  • May 20th:  Meet the Bees: Hive Structure, Sting Safety, and First Aid  – Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith St)
  • June 10th: Hands-On Hive Management: Health, Pests, and Seasonal Care  – Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith St)
  • July 15th: Bees and Beyond: Hive Placement, Neighbor Relations, and Pest Prevention  – Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith St)
  • August 19th: Sweet Rewards: The Art and Science of Honey Harvesting  – Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith St)
  • September 16th: Preparing for the Cold: Fall Management and Overwintering Strategies  – Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith St)
  • October 21st: Winter Bees and Beekeepers: Surviving the Cold Season   – Veterans Urban Farm (1207 Smith St)

Space is limited, so be sure to sign up in advance to secure your spot! You can register by clicking here: [Register for Bee Club Workshops].

Please pass this information along to your networks—whether it’s veterans, farmers, gardeners, or anyone interested in beekeeping. We’d love to see you at Buzz Talks!

 

 

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