Home | Minority & Veteran Farmers of the Piedmont

Minority & Veteran Farmers of the Piedmont's mission is to empower communities and advance rural resilience through education, advocacy, and engagement that promote rural living, environmental stewardship, and equitable access to local food. By strengthening local food systems and supporting youth and families, MVFP helps cultivate strong, healthy, and future-ready communities.

NEW! READ THE 2024-2025 MVFP ANNUAL REPORT

MVFP Board Member Ralph Morton Recognized with Inaugural Virginia Veteran Farmer Award

Ralph Morton, a 21-year Army veteran and MVFP founder, was recognized as Virginia honored its first Veteran Farmer Award recipients in October 2025 at the State Fair. This award recognizes military veterans who have transitioned into agriculture and are strengthening local communities.Three total Virginia veterans were celebrated for their contributions to sustainable farming, conservation practices, and economic resilience. This inaugural recognition highlights the shared values of service, stewardship, and resilience that veterans bring to Virginia’s agricultural future.

The Minority and Veteran Farmers of the Piedmont (MVFP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is located in the rolling foothills of Virginia. MVFP is a grassroots organization that was established to develop educational and experiential learning opportunities through hands-on instruction. We function to promote training, coaching, and mentorships for minorities, veterans, farmers, and youth.

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Upcoming Events

From MVFP & our partners.

Fri, Jan 09
VABF Conference
Roanoke
RSVP
Jan 09, 2026, 8:00 AM EST – Jan 11, 2026, 4:00 PM EST
Roanoke, Roanoke, VA, USA
The Virginia Biological Farming Conference brings together farmers, gardeners, consumers, educators, industry professionals, and advocates of sustainable, regenerative, biological, and organic agriculture.
Sat, Jan 10
Buyer/Grower Expo at the 2026 VABF Conference
Roanoke
RSVP
Jan 10, 2026, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Roanoke, Roanoke, VA, USA
Wed, Jan 21
Piedmont Action Coalition on Hunger (PACH) Meeting
Rapidan
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Jan 21, 2026, 12:30 PM
Rapidan, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733, USA
Join partners and community members for an update‑focused PACH meeting featuring Kelly Key, Director of Programs at the Local Environmental Agriculture Project. Learn how LEAP’s Roanoke program supports SNAP/EBT, strengthens local farmers, and helps build a resilient regional food systems.
Sat, Mar 21
Carver Food Enterprise Center's Local Flavor Fest
Rapidan
RSVP
Mar 21, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Rapidan, 9432 N James Madison Hwy Suite 106, Rapidan, VA 22733, USA
Taste your way through 11+ local food businesses launched at Carver—family‑friendly, no alcohol, and kids 12 & under are free. Your ticket includes samples plus behind‑the‑scenes access: tour the upgraded kitchen, preview the auditorium renovation, and learn how Carver programs power local food.