HEALing SoIL
HERBan Farm
Cultivating Land, Leadership & Lasting Change
Land Rich. Access Poor.
Southern Illinois has abundant farmland, yet beginning farmers — especially those from historically underserved communities — struggle to access land after completing agricultural training.
Over 4 years, not a single minority graduate of the Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings Program secured farmland to continue farming. This limits economic opportunity, food access, community health, and generational wealth.
Most programs end with education. We begin where they end.
Six Pillars of Transformation
A comprehensive pathway from training to land stewardship, business ownership, and long-term community impact.
Land Access
2 acres of dedicated farmland at The Inkwell, providing a permanent home for growing food and building futures.
Agricultural Training
Hands-on farming education that goes beyond the classroom, teaching real-world skills from seed to harvest.
Mentorship
Guidance from experienced farmers and community leaders who walk alongside participants every step of the way.
Entrepreneurship Support
Farm business planning, value-added products, and market access to turn agricultural skills into sustainable livelihoods.
Trauma-Informed Healing
A healing-centered approach that supports the whole person, recognizing that growth starts from within.
Reentry Support
Pathways for returning citizens to become land stewards and leaders, transforming lived experience into community strength.
Quianya L. Enge
A community leader with lived experience who founded Beyond the Walls to create a supportive network for those impacted by the justice system.
After completing the Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings Program, Quianya noticed that not a single minority participant secured land over four years. Rather than creating another education program, she bought land and created a place where learning continues after graduation — where people grow food, build businesses, and create generational wealth.
Read Our Full StoryMeasuring What Matters
Acres of Dedicated Farmland
Acres Identified for Expansion
Program Pillars
Community Partners
Growing Together
Be Part of the Movement
Whether you want to volunteer, apply to the program, partner with us, or support our mission — there is a place for you at the table.