Grow-to-Donate Farm and Apprenticeship
Intermediary
We are a regenerative ag grow-to-donate, nonprofit farm on the Central Coast in California. We offer CA Division of Apprenticeship Standards and US Department of Labor certified agriculture and ag-related technology apprenticeships to include training, placement (anywhere in the US), and career support as part of our community building effort.
Virtual Learning
Open Source, open to apprentices or the public
Apprenticeship and Workshops Learning Center & Community of Practice
In-Person Workshops
In SLO County or on your site
Certification
CA Division of Apprenticeship Standards and US Department of Labor
In-progress Apprenticeships waiting for Certification and Available in 2026
Technical Sales Associates; Robotics and Mechatronics Technicians; Farm and Ranch Livestock Technicians; Verinary Assistants and Lab Animal Caretakers
Current Certified Apprenticeships
Grow-to-Donate Produce Recipients
No chemicals, regenerative agriculture practices, vegetables and fruit.
SLO Food Bank
SLO Gleaners
Food Distribution Rescue.
SLOFoodbank.org
Meals that Connect
Senior Meals
1200-1500 Lunches a day.
MealsThatConnect.org
Santa Maria
Urban Ministry
Food Pantry. Downtown San Jose.
SantaMariaSJ.org
ECHO – El Camino
Homeless Organization
Meals and Overnight Shelter
ElCaminoShelter.org
Your Organization?
Partner with us
Reach out
Kelly@OpenSource.ag
El Estero
Kindness Coalition
Food Distribution
EsteroBayKindnessCoalition.org
Open Source Ag 501(c)(3) is a GuideStar/Candid Platinum Rated Nonprofit
How does Grow-to-Donate Work?
By connecting gardeners, small farmers, and regenerative agriculture advocates, Grow-to-Donate encourages and supports surplus harvests and intentional plantings into a lifeline for families in need, addressing food insecurity with healthy, nutrient-dense options often missing from traditional food assistance programs. This effort nurtures the community by feeding neighbors and the land through regenerative practices, creating a ripple effect of generosity, stewardship, and collaborative impact for a more resilient, food-secure future.
Grow-to-Donate may be cherry tomatoes from an apartment patio, a tree loaded with lemons, or runaway squash plants; let’s work together to feed ourselves and our community.
Benefits for Apprentices
For apprentices, certified apprenticeship programs provide a unique opportunity to learn through hands-on experience. Apprentices gain job-specific skills by working directly on real projects alongside skilled mentors, receive targeted one-on-one support, and build confidence as they apply classroom learning to practical challenges. Apprentices earn nationally recognized credentials, greater job security, and career advancement. Completing an apprenticeship demonstrates to employers a strong commitment, technical ability, and work ethic, offering a measurable competitive advantage in the workforce. Apprentices also benefit from higher retention and job satisfaction, increased lifetime earning potential, and a sense of belonging within their chosen profession.
Certification
CA Division of Apprenticeships and US Department of Labor Certified Apprenticeships
Related and Supplemental Instruction
150 unpaid hours collaborating and learning; virtual community of practice. Online learning, local exploration where you live, career preparation, and community building. Flexible days/times on your schedule. Apprentices prepare for great career opportunities.
On-The-Job (OTJ) Training
We collaborate to support locating and securing employers, near where you live. OTJ is 2,000 hours of paid employment. You may have multiple employers or a single employer for the 2,000 hours. Apprenticeship certification follows you, over time, You may complete in one year or work with multiple employers over a few years. Lots of options, let’s talk.
Benefits for Employers
For employers, certified apprenticeships are a strategic investment in developing a productive, loyal workforce tailored to organizational needs. By blending skills-based training with on-the-job training, employers can ensure new hires are job-ready and bring competencies aligned with company standards and industry best practices. Apprenticeship programs lower recruitment costs, improve staff retention, and build a reliable talent pipeline, while also supporting diversity and fostering fresh perspectives within the team. Many employers report higher productivity and higher quality work from apprentices, along with improved workplace safety and a culture of continuous learning. Additionally, offering apprenticeships enhances a company’s reputation as a supportive, forward-thinking employer, making it easier to attract top talent and secure long-term organizational growth.
Certification
Apprentices in certification programs receive a blend of formal instruction and structured, hands-on experience, ensuring they master relevant technical skills, safety standards, and problem-solving abilities that align with current and emerging business requirements.
Related and Supplemental Instruction
Employers who hire apprentices who have completed short-term training benefit from gaining workers who are already equipped with job-relevant foundational skills and theoretical knowledge before starting in the field.
On-The-Job (OTJ) Training
Offering OJT is a powerful strategy for building a strong and adaptable workforce. OJT equips employees with practical skills and real-world experience directly aligned with organizational goals, allowing them to learn by doing in their work environment.
Apprenticeship Frequently Asked Questions
You can also email questions to Kelly@OpenSource.ag, we are here to support your efforts.
Kelly Cooper
Kelly oversees planting, plants, workshops, grants, harvest, technology, and apprenticeships.
Curt Cooper
Curt oversees water, equipment, governing paperwork, weather pivots, and maintenance.
Blaze Elation
Soloro 501(c)(3), sister farm located in Creston. Soloro offers Learning CSAs, Events, and donates produce.
Let’s Collaborate…
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