MEET THE FARMER Series

Welcome to a special edition of our MEET THE FARMER series, featuring Caleb Coulter, owner and operator of American Farmers. This isn't just a story about growing exceptional asparagus and apples—it's about how life's challenges can inspire extraordinary purpose and community impact.

When Experience Becomes Mission

Caleb's journey toward meaningful giving began with a family health challenge that brought his daughter to University of Michigan CS Mott Children's Hospital at a young age. The exceptional care they received from the medical team left a lasting impression on Caleb and his wife, sparking conversations about how they could "elevate their business and become a blessing to others."

Today, their daughter is a thriving 20-year-old high school graduate who has worked in the family asparagus operation for four years. Both daughters are integral parts of this truly family-run business, embodying the resilience and hope that drives their mission.

A Historic Partnership

In a groundbreaking collaboration, American Farmers has become the very first company that Michigan Medicine has partnered with for a co-branded experience. Starting in May, CS Mott Children's Hospital's logo appears on asparagus packages, with apple products following in September and October. A percentage of every sale directly supports the hospital's mission to care for young patients—the "little victors" as they're lovingly called.

"Getting up to bat was a big deal," Caleb reflects on reaching this milestone. "That's how I want to put it."

From Saddle Time to Service

Many of Caleb's best ideas come from quiet moments of reflection during "saddle time on an old John Deere with no radio," where he contemplates "how can we do this better?" This thoughtful approach has guided the evolution from a local farm operation to a business with national reach and purpose.

The partnership represents perfect synergy—a family that experienced excellent healthcare wanting to support others, while providing healthy, nourishing products that benefit patients, families, and communities.

Touching Lives Across the Nation

American Farmers' reach is truly remarkable. Their products are consumed in every county in Michigan, northern Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and reach almost all 50 states and several countries. This expansive distribution means their support touches the 100,000 individual patients treated at Mott annually, along with thousands of family members and potentially groundbreaking research.

A Vision Beyond Borders

Caleb's vision extends far beyond New Era, Michigan. Just as McDonald's counts "billions served," he tracks the servings of asparagus, peaches, and apples that reach families nationwide. His goal is simple yet ambitious: to serve the globe while supporting life-changing medical care.

The Perfect Partnership

Gene Skidmore from University of Michigan CS Mott Children's Hospital Development team celebrates this collaboration as more than business—it's about families helping families. "It's a positive message through produce and a win-win for all," he explains.

From a family farm in New Era, Michigan, American Farmers is proving that business success and community impact can grow together, creating a harvest of hope that extends far beyond the fields.

Watch this inspiring conversation in the video above and discover how purpose-driven farming is making a difference in the lives of children and families across the nation.