Will Allen's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Will Allen is an American farmer, entrepreneur, and advocate for urban agriculture, sustainable food systems, and social justice. Allen’s passion for farming and his commitment to providing access to healthy, sustainably-grown food for all communities has made him a prominent figure in the food justice movement.

Growing up in a farming family in Maryland, Allen developed an early love for agriculture. He went on to study agriculture at the University of Miami and played professional basketball in Europe before returning to the United States to pursue a career in farming. In 1993, Allen founded Growing Power, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable urban agriculture and providing communities with the knowledge and resources to grow their own food.

Through Growing Power, Allen established urban farms in Milwaukee and Chicago, creating opportunities for local residents to access fresh produce and learn about sustainable farming practices. He also developed innovative techniques for farming in urban environments, such as the use of vertical growing systems, aquaponics, and vermicomposting. These methods have been widely recognized for their potential to address food insecurity and promote environmental sustainability in cities.

In addition to his work with Growing Power, Allen has been a vocal advocate for food justice and equality in the United States. He has spoken at numerous conferences and events, sharing his expertise on sustainable agriculture and calling for policies that support small-scale, family-owned farms and promote access to healthy food for all communities. Allen’s tireless advocacy has earned him numerous accolades, including a MacArthur Foundation “genius grant” in 2008 and an appointment to the board of the Kellogg Foundation in 2014.

In his book "The Good Food Revolution," Allen chronicles his journey from a sharecropper’s son to a leader in the urban agriculture movement. The book provides a compelling account of Allen’s efforts to address food insecurity and promote sustainable farming practices in urban environments. Through his personal story, Allen highlights the challenges and opportunities facing small-scale farmers and urban communities, and offers practical solutions for creating a more equitable and sustainable food system.

Today, Allen’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of farmers, activists, and community leaders. His work has helped to catalyze a growing movement for urban agriculture and food justice, and his commitment to empowering communities through sustainable farming practices serves as a powerful example of the potential for positive change. With his vision and determination, Allen has demonstrated that it is possible to create a more just and sustainable food system for all.