Freida Graves

Director of Food is Medicine Program

FAITH Farms & Orchard

Gary, IN USA

“Some people will see me as an activist—I just see myself as doing what was put in my spirit to do. I can’t do anything but advocate for the city I love and the people I love.”

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By Roadtrip Nation

Freida Graves

Milestones

My road in life took a while to figure out.

I grew up in Gary, Indiana, as the youngest of seven—our meals were humble but they sowed the seeds of my journey in food and health.

After graduating high school, I ventured into various jobs and then marriage.

When my children reached school age, I returned to education for nursing, earning my certification as a licensed practical nurse.

I transitioned from healthcare to agriculture—my nursing background became the bedrock of my mission to heal through food, not just medicine.

I became a farm administrator without prior gardening experience—rather my learning was nurtured by the wisdom of the older generation and their connection to the land.

Working with FAITH Farms, I help to transform abandoned lands into sources of nourishment and education, echoing my grandmother's garden from my youth.

I championed the Food as Medicine initiative, leveraging my nursing insights to combat health issues in Gary with nature's bounty.

Education

High School

Certification/License
Licensed Practical Nurse
Certification

Certification/License
Master Gardner
Purdue Extension in Indiana

Career

Director of Food is Medicine Program

I blend healthcare expertise with agricultural management to create healing gardens that nourish bodies and communities.

Career Roadmap

My work combines:

Food

Environment & Nature

Helping People

Advice for Getting Started

Here's the first step for college students

While my nursing background was helpful for the Food is Medicine portion, I'd recommend pursuing a degree in agriculture, food justice, public health, or environmental justice.