At COSAP Co-op, we believe that sharing stories is one of the most powerful ways to inspire collective action and celebrate the work being done across the sustainable agriculture landscape. That’s why we’re excited to highlight the story of one AFT team member who embodies the values of protecting farmland, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting farmers at every step.
We recently sat down with Sydney, the Midwest Philanthropy Officer at American Farmland Trust, to hear more about her personal connection to agriculture and how her work supports the broader movement for a more just and resilient food system.
Q: Sydney, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I'm Sydney and I'm an Ohio native. I’m a gardener and aspiring farmer, so agriculture feels deeply personal to me.
Q: How did you find your way to AFT?
Like many people, I first saw those “No Farms, No Food” stickers at farmers markets and on bumpers. That simple message stuck with me. I chose to work at AFT because I care deeply about the climate crisis, and I resonate with AFT’s belief that agriculture, when done right, can be a climate solution.
Q: What is your role at AFT?
I serve as the Midwest Philanthropy Officer, which means I build and steward relationships with donors and members across the Midwest to support AFT’s mission.
Q: What’s the culture at AFT like?
I’d describe it as a culture of credibility. We have a highly educated and passionate staff—from farmers and scientists to policy experts—who are all dedicated to the future of agriculture. It’s inspiring to work alongside people who bring such depth and commitment to the table.
Q: In your view, what are some of the most impactful things AFT does to uphold environmental stewardship, human care, food health and taste, and fairness in food distribution?
AFT protects farmland, promotes environmentally sound farming practices, and helps keep farmers on the land through farmer-centered programs, research, and advocacy.
Q: What comes to mind when you hear “protecting and connecting: people, plants, place”?
That phrase really echoes AFT’s mission. Our work is holistic—people, plants, and place are all deeply connected. You can’t protect one without honoring and supporting the others.
Through Sydney’s reflections, it’s clear that AFT is not only working to safeguard farmland but also to build a more equitable and sustainable food future. We’re proud to be in partnership with organizations like AFT—and people like Sydney—who are on the ground making that vision a reality every day.
Stay tuned for more spotlight stories as we continue to uplift the voices of those protecting and connecting people, plants, and place across the food system.