EarthDance Organic Farm School

In Ferguson, Missouri, tucked away in a residential neighborhood, is a beautiful 14-acre, historic farm called EarthDance. A 2024-2025 SOS grantee (as well a 2022 grantee), the mission of EarthDance is to advance food justice by training organic farmers and gardeners of all ages, providing connection to healthy food and the land, and cultivating vibrant community. They are committed to paying their staff a fair wage, which is not always common in farming. EarthDance offers a pay-what-you can model for both their produce and their educational opportunities, so that finances are not a barrier.

Brady, a summer 2024 Apprentice at the farm, shared the joy of seeing fresh food reach those who need it the most. “The first time I worked the farm stand, I saw a single mother come in with her three children. She couldn’t afford the full price, but because of EarthDance’s commitment to accessibility, she was able to leave with fresh, healthy food for her family. It’s incredibly empowering to know that our work makes this possible for people who really need it.”

Sixty percent of EarthDance’s farm stand and farmers market customers are North County residents, where access to healthy food is a challenge. EarthDance also donates produce to local food pantries and partners with agencies such as Missouri WIC Program. Together with Missouri WIC, they supported 115 families with organic produce during 2024, helping mothers and children thrive.

Full season apprentice Blake said, “It’s even more special when you see the food grow from the seed all the way to harvest, knowing I’ve nurtured it with love. Sharing that food with our neighbors nourishes their souls, bringing love full circle.”

Core to their mission is teaching kids to farm and garden using organic methods, working through local school districts, summer camps, and after school programs. They also train adults through apprenticeships and seasonal programs, many of whom go on to establish their own farms and gardens.

EarthDance has operated since 2008, serving as a model and collaborator with other organizations promoting access to healthy food. They stand out as the complete package, according to SOS member Elaine Miller, who participated in last year’s SOS site visit. “The staff are passionate about urban farming and they engage the community on every level. In addition to providing food, they educate children and adults about healthy eating and how to grow it. Their apprenticeship program helps to spread the mission by training people to work in the profession or form other urban farms.”