Values Based Food System Gathering

Values Based Food System Gathering

At Need More Acres Farm, our work has always been rooted in values—ensuring that our community's well-being remains at the heart of everything we do.

That’s why we’re excited to announce the Value Based Food System Gathering on November 5, 2025, hosted right here on our farm! In partnership with the National Farm to School Network, National Center for Sustainable Technology and dedicated local and state partners, this gathering will bring together:

✅ Farmers

✅ Buyers

✅ Technical support providers

✅ Community members

Together, we’ll engage in meaningful conversations and collaborate on strategies to strengthen local food networks and ensure procurement decisions reflect our shared values. The first 25 farmers to register will receive $100 for their travel/time expenses.If you're passionate about supporting farmers, building resilient food systems, and aligning purchasing with values, we’d love to have you join us!

Agenda

8:30 – 9:00 AM | Registration & Breakfast: Check in, enjoy a light breakfast, and connect with fellow participants.

9:00 – 9:30 AM | Welcome & Opening Remarks: Michelle Howell, Need More Acres Farm; Tomas Delgado, National Farm to School Network

9:30 – 11:30 AM | Breakout Sessions: Rotate between three interactive sessions:

Farm to School Procurement: Dalla Emerson, Bowling Green Independent Schools; Laurie White, Community Farm Alliance / Kentucky Farm to School Network

Farm to HealthCare Programming: Lisa Arvin, Kentucky Department for Public Health; Sandra Ballew Barnes, Community Farm Alliance

Market & Funding Opportunities: Brandi Button-Johnson, University of Kentucky Value Chain Coordinator; Terryn Varney, Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development

11:30 – 1:00 PM | Lunch & Networking: Enjoy a locally sourced lunch and take part in 1:1 networking between producers and school food buyers.

1:00 – 2:00 PM | Farm & Food Hub Tour: Guided by Nathan Howell, Need More Acres Farm

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Need More Acres Farm, 395 Hickory Lane, Scottsville, United States