HEN DPG School-to-Farm Program
To help facilitate the rapidly growing interest within the profession of dietetics regarding sustainable food and agricultural systems, the American Dietetic Association’s (ADA) Hunger and Environmental Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group (HEN DPG) is implementing a means of connecting ADA members who are farmers and growers with dietetic students and interns seeking volunteer experiences related to HEN’s Vision, Mission, and Definition of Sustainability (www.hendpg.org).
HEN Vision
Optimize the nation’s health by promoting access to nutritious food and clean water from a secure and sustainable food system.
HEN Mission
Empower members to be leaders in sustainable and accessible food and water systems.
Sustainability
HEN defines sustainability as: "A sustainable and resilient food system [that] conserves and renews natural resources, advances social justice and animal welfare, builds community wealth, and fulfills the food and nutrition needs of all eaters now and in the future."
(Harmon A. & Tagtow A., 2008)
HEN School-to-Farm Placement Eligibility
This HEN sponsored program is open to all ADA members who are involved in commercial agriculture and food production and who meet the eligibility requirements outlined later in this document.
The program is also open to all student members in The American Dietetic Association who meet one of the following:
• is a student enrolled in a CADE accredited/approved dietetics or dietetic technician program or supervised practice program who does not meet requirements for Active membership, or
• is a student enrolled in a regionally accredited, post-secondary education program which is non-CADE accredited. This classification is available to students who state their intent to enter a CADE accredited program, or
• is a current Active ADA member returning to school on a full-time basis for a baccalaureate or advanced degree or to complete a CADE accredited supervised practice program (Dietetic Technician Program, Dietetic Internship, or Coordinated Program) — annual verification required.
In addition, a host farm may also give consideration to hosting Active members of ADA if an ADA member(s) desires to participate in and/or develop activities to meet individual professional goals and/or CPEUs that would be related to sustainable agriculture and food systems and also be of benefit to the ADA hosting member. Active members should complete a Sponsored Independent Learning Contract in order to obtain CPEUs.
If you are interested in learning more about HEN's School-to-Farm program, please click here.
