In an era where urbanization is rapidly expanding, the importance of connecting urban communities with healthy and sustainable food sources cannot be overstated. The Jackie Joyner Kersee Food Agriculture, Nutrition and Innovation Center (JJK FAN) represents a transformative initiative aimed at empowering youth and communities in East St. Louis, IL through urban agriculture, food innovation, entrepreneurship and career readiness.
The FAN is comprised of four organizations: The Jackie Joyner Kersee Foundation, Donald Danforth Plant Center, University of Illinois Extension and Lansdowne UP. All are working collaboratively to ensure the FAN is the primer center for urban agriculture and participatory research.
