The foundation is governed and managed by its board of directors at its national headquarters- 112 E. Lincoln Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 .  Scholarships and grants are received by completing applications as directed by the board, and are then entered into the foundation data system and awarded based upon qualifications and needs. Funds are awarded in two forms to recipients; as a scholarship or outright grant.

In 1985, the foundation applied for and received authority from the United States Department of State to sponsor a J-1 training and intern program, allowing the exchange of young people to have a learning experience in agriculture. Placements are made at our highly qualified and successful member farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses as described in our J-1 category for trainees and interns. In addition we offer CA Education Programs (CAEP). CAEP offers participants the opportunity to receive additional education as an option while in the program. The Communicating for Agriculture Scholarship and Education Foundation is responsible for the management of this program as well.

The Chief Responsible Officer is Peter Risbrudt, Secretary-Treasurer, and the Alternate Responsible Officer is Milton Smedsrud, Chairman. Both are lifetime members of the CAF Board with Smedsrud being the founder of the foundation. In addition there is a full-time staff of supervisor/coordinators, and data processing and accounting personnel.

The foundation is responsible for providing all training programs, documentation and meeting with the US State Department to adhere to their guidelines and make changes as required by law. The foundation management team consists of supervisor/coordinators for each program category who provide orientation seminars, host family approval as placement for trainee/intern, and on-site visits to ensure the program is beneficial to all parties involved. Upon completion of the program both the host family and trainee-intern are required to complete an evaluation report back to our organization. If completion of the program is satisfactory the foundation presents participants a certificate of satisfactory completion.

The foundation provides grants to Americans between the ages of 18 and 28 to have a similar 3 to 12 month placement in agriculture with one of our country partners around the world.

For additional information please contact our office at ( 218) 739-3241 or one of the following.

Foundation Board Members:

Milton Smedsrud, Milt@cainc.org

Peter Risbrudt, Peter@cainc.org

Wayne Nelson , Wayne@cainc.org