Will Allen is a farmer and activist who has transformed two acres within an urban, impoverished Milwaukee neighborhood into a hotbed of agricultural innovation. As co-founder and director of Growing Power, he teaches low-cost farming methods, involves young people in developing a culture of nutritious eating, and experiments continuously with new designs for food distribution amongst the urban poor.
Growing Power is a national nonprofit organization and land trust providing hands-on training, on-the-ground demonstration, outreach and technical assistance through the development of Community Food Systems that help people grow, process, market and distribute food in a sustainable manner.
Will Allen received a "Genius Award" from the MacArthur Foundation for his food revolution and work with Growing Power in Milwaukee. In September of 2009, the Wisconsin Humanities Council invited him to speak with community leaders and a large crowd in Madison.
Read the New York Times Magazine article, "Street Farmer" by Elizabeth Royte, by clicking here.
Will Allen talks dirt in Madison
Will Allen's approach to urban agriculture is drawing international attention. His work at Growing Power is inspiring a renaissance in his Milwaukee neighborhood and fresh projects throughout Wisconsin, the country, and the world. On September 17, 2009, the Wisconsin Humanities Council invited community leaders from Madison to talk with Will Allen about the importance of locally based efforts to strengthen community life. The free public talk drew hundreds of people to the Goodman Community Center for inspiration, conversation, and local foods prepared by Ironworks Catering.
 Will Allen with Madison community leaders. |
 Will Allen speaking to a packed house. |
 People are listening. |
 Robert Pierce and Will Allen. |
 Small group discussion after Allen's presentation. |
 Will Allen with the event organizers from the WHC. |