Here is how the project went:
We kicked off the project in March 2025 by building and planting six raised garden beds at a local community garden. With help from the Roots & Shoots grant, we purchased seeds, soil, drip irrigation supplies, and child-friendly gardening and cooking tools. In June, we launched a free week-long summer camp where underserved youth learned about pollinators, planted fruits and vegetables, and explored sustainability through hands-on lessons. One bed was dedicated to milkweed to attract monarch butterflies. After the camp, we continued with monthly garden classes. Students harvested strawberries and beans, created succulent fairy gardens, and even tried new foods like squash and kiwi. They also learned about water conservation, composting, and the 4Rs. Despite challenges like extreme heat and adjusting lessons for younger students, the kids stayed engaged and excited. Their joy, curiosity, and growing confidence showed us the project was a success.
Through this project I/we learned:
Through this project, we learned how to adapt our lessons for different age groups and stay flexible when facing challenges like weather or crops not growing.
What I/we might change:
Next time, we would grow more pollinator-friendly plants since they were easier to maintain and attracted more butterflies and bees compared to some of the fruits and vegetables that were harder to grow.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Seeing the kids’ excitement as they harvested fruits and vegetables they helped grow, and watching them try a new fruit or vegetable for the first time.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
Plant early in the season to give your fruits and vegetables enough time to grow and be ready for harvest.
