The Community Agroecology Network (CAN)

Nature of Research/Program Description: 

The Community Agroecology Network (CAN) is an international network committed to sustaining rural livelihoods and environments, by integrating research, education, and locally-informed development strategies. Together with our local partner organizations, we promote food security and sovereignty in rural communities through agroecological farming practices; local control over food production, distribution and consumption; alternative trade models; and the empowerment of local and Indigenous youth and women in the leadership of these initiatives. Since 2002, we have worked collaboratively with women, men, and children to end hunger and build food sovereignty among small farmers. The results are strong women and youth, vibrant food economies, and healthy families. 

Keywords: gardens; food justice; women; youth; empowerment; PAR; alternative trade; food system; nutrition; international; participatory action; agroecology; farming; food security and sovereignty; community health; education; teaching; summer; fall quarter; winter quarter; spring quarter

Contact: Carmen Cortez

Location: 
On-campus
Off-campus
Location Details: 
Susustainable Living Center, A-2; Watsonville, CA; Nicaragua; Mexico
Targeted Students: 
Any student interested in international development, agroecological farming practices, alternative trade, the next generation of food system leaders, food security and nutrition, just food economies, and empowerment of rural youth and women.
Program Time Period: 
Summer
All Year
Winter Quarter
Spring Quarter
Fall Quarter
Compensation: 
Stipend
Volunteer
Details: 

To get involved with CAN’s AgroEco Coffee Program; to volunteer at our Annual International Youth Exchange (Intercambio); or learn more about local and international food soverignty and food justice projects please contact us atinfo@canunite.org

We also work closely with the Friends of CAN (FoCAN), a student-led organization at UCSC. To get involved with FoCAN’s efforts to foster dialogue and experiential learning about the global food system and sustainability amongst students, please contact focan@ucsc.edu or visit www.FoCAN.weebly.com.

Application Deadline: 
Contact info@canunite.org for more information.
Year Began: 
2002
Contact: 
Carmen Cortez
Contact Title: 
Associate Director
Contact Email: 
info@canunite.org
Faculty Director: 
Executive Director, Roseann Cohen
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