Vets to Cowboys: Helping Veterans Transition to Farming

0:00In Birmingham, it's March 15th. Here's what is happening. A family in Gran Bay, Alabama, is helping military veterans transition to civilian life by teaching them ranching skills. Jeremy and Heather Clark started vets to cowboys, after vets they knew asked to spend time on their farm working with cattle. The program shows veterans how to start their own operations, providing purpose and a way to support their families. It began when Clark noticed vets wanted hands-on farm days to see where food comes from. Soon, more reached out for help launching farms, leading the Clarks to form the non-profit. They used their three years of hard-learn lessons to guide first-time farmers. For many combat vets, ranching offers the right mix of stress and routine, without the intensity of military service. It builds on skills like teamwork and adaptability from the battlefield. Participants gain mental health benefits in a sense of direction. The Clarks stand out by creating a cheat sheet of tips and planning a schoolhouse for practical training. Heather, with her vet-tec background, is formalizing the non-profit to expand reach.

1:05Now, they're spreading the word to connect with more veterans, whether for a one-day reset or long-term farming support. This effort also aims to boost food security and revive declining farm numbers in the state. A quick thank you to our sponsor of today's episode. It looks like a pillow. It sounds like headphones built for comfort and sound. S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com