Here is how the project went:
The Boysville Food-to-Table project has been progressing well, thanks in large part to the support of the Jane Goodall Foundation. Volunteers from auditing and realty companies joined us to help clean up the garden, and afterward, the kids helped spread mulch and plant seeds. While the crops haven't sprouted yet, we're incredibly proud of everything we've accomplished so far.
Through this project I/we learned:
Through this project, we’ve discovered a strong interest within our community to volunteer on our campus, particularly with gardening and garden maintenance. Many of our recent volunteers have expressed curiosity and enthusiasm about the garden project, which suggests exciting potential for growth. However, we’ve also realized that it may take a bit more encouragement to get the boys on our campus more actively involved, as our girls have shown consistent enthusiasm throughout every stage of the gardening process.
What I/we might change:
In the future, we plan to open up more volunteer days earlier in the process to give the community more opportunities to get involved. We would also build in more time for ourselves to work on the project. Additionally, we’ve learned the importance of better scheduling, especially considering how intense the South Texas sun can be during the summer months.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Our favorite part of the project so far has been involving the kids at Boysville in the gardening process. Many of the girls, especially those between the ages of 10 and 14, were eager to take on every task and consistently went above and beyond to ensure the garden beds were properly prepared and visually appealing.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
One key tip we’d share for anyone starting a garden project is to spread the word early and often, you might be surprised by how many potential volunteers are in your community once they know the project exists. Another important reminder is to take care of yourself and others while working outdoors. Staying hydrated and eating properly is essential. Working outside and doing something you love is incredibly rewarding, but it should never come at the expense of anyone’s well-being. Always be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for yourself and everyone involved throughout the project!
