Angelic Organics Learning Center

Established in 1999, the educational nonprofit began as Angelic Organics Learning Center, partnering with Angelic Organics CSA farm. Founded by Executive Director Tom Spaulding, his wife Neddy Astudillo, and biodynamic farmer John Peterson, the center aimed to foster a vibrant local food economy. Operating initially out of a renovated chicken coop, it offered workshops, farmer training programs, and educational initiatives in Chicago and Rockford. Now known as Farmers Rising, the organization reaches over 5,000 people annually through various programs and events.

The farm adheres to Biodynamic principles and raises pasture-based livestock, including Scottish Highland beef, pork, chicken, and goat. Animals are raised outdoors with access to pasture, sunshine, fresh air, clean water, and shelter. The farm produces its own hay and avoids grains for ruminants, except for dairy goats during lactation, which receive up to one pound daily of certified organic soy-free grain. No hormones, antibiotics, or soy are used. The meats are 'transitional' organic, meaning they are not yet certified.

Goats are available in July, while other meats can be reserved in the spring for pickup starting in early December. Goats and chickens are for on-farm pickup only, while beef and pork can be picked up at a family-owned meat processor in Seward, IL. The organization also offers a variety of educational programs, including farm workshops, field trips, summer camps, and farm stays at Angelic Organics Lodge. Their Farmer Training Department coordinates the Upper Midwest CRAFT farmer training alliance and the Stateline Farm Beginnings program, which has graduated nearly 300 sustainable farmers since 2006. Urban Agriculture Programs in Rockford empower youth and adults to gain leadership and job skills while learning to grow food.