Implementing a Kansas Local Food Systems Collaborative: Building Resilient and Equitable Food Systems Together
Helping Farmers in KS thrive
In Partnership with Kansas State University.
KBFA is a sub-awardee on “Implementing a Kansas Local Food Systems Collaborative: Building Resilient and Equitable Food Systems Together,” with Kansas State University. Through this initiative, we are hosting a summer fellowship that supports outreach and data collection to strengthen our internal member directory and deepen connections among Black farmers across Kansas and Missouri. This work is part of our continued commitment to building more resilient, connected, and equitable food systems in our region.
Below are some of the counties where you can find our membership supporting KS farmers. When you become a member of KBFA you’ll have access to this membership directory where you can connect with other farmers in your area.
- Southwestern Kansas: Finney, Stanton, Grant, Seward, Ford
- Northwestern Kansas: Graham, Norton, Gove, Logan
- Central Kansas: Reno, Ellis, Riley, Geary, Lyons
- Southern Kansas: Sedgwick, Douglas
- Northeastern Kansas: Shawnee, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson
Program
Overview
The KBFA Membership Outreach Fellowship is an 8-week, part-time summer opportunity designed to support our efforts in building a comprehensive, member-only directory of Black farmers across Kansas and Missouri.
Fellows play a key role in outreach, engaging directly with both new and existing members to encourage participation in a survey that gathers important data about farming practices, land use, and community needs. The information collected helps us connect farmers with one another, share resources, and advocate more effectively for support across local and national platforms.
In addition to remote work, fellows may have the opportunity to attend on-site farm visits and regional food systems events to deepen their understanding of local agriculture and expand KBFA’s network.
Meet the Team
Meet Lucian
My name is Lucian Zaragoza. I’m a third-generation Mexican American and a summer fellow with the Kansas Black Farmers Association. I enjoy growing food and herbs in my garden, raising chickens, and learning from others’ perspectives, especially through history and conversation. As a young entrepreneur, I’m always looking for opportunities to connect and grow.
Through this fellowship, I’m excited to:
Deepen my understanding of farming
Land stewardship
and community resilience
After the program, I hope to continue working toward owning land, preserving food, and living a lifestyle rooted in health, freedom, and sustainability.
What You’ll Gain
By joing our growing membership directory you will
Strengthen Representation
Help ensure Black and other BIPOC farmers are visible and represented in local and statewide food system efforts.
Build Connections
Connect with other Black +BIPOC farmers across Kansas and Missouri to share knowledge and support.
Access Opportunities
Receive relevant resources, programs, and funding opportunities tailored to your farm’s needs.
Inquire More
Have questions about the program or the directory?
To contact us to inquire more: