Teaching Young People About Caring for the Land, Community and Themselves through Sustainable Farming and Gardening Practices

View the project final report

Commodities

Practices

• Education and Training: workshop, youth education

WJP Urban Farm is an educational laboratory that engages young people in sustainable agriculture by restoring vacant lots from blight and creates fertile urban farms that are used to regenerate our neighborhood and feed the local community. We use urban agriculture as a platform to educate young people through a hands-on multi-disciplinary approach that combines classroom and on farm lessons. Young people are prepared to become good stewards of themselves, their community and the land. We build bridges across many demographics such as race, class, and geographical location which is paramount to making a positive impact on an ever-changing world.

1. Increase sustainable farming skills of 100 elementary and middle school students in Detroit, MI through hands-on work sessions with urban farmers practicing organic techniques.

2. Introduce youth to sustainable agriculture career opportunities through 5 trips to visit local farmers.

3. Increase farm planning skills in the classroom during the winter through crop planning and seed sowing.

4. Harvest vegetables, fruits, and herbs for students to take home or to community and soup kitchens in Detroit.

5. Utilize the art and science of farming to teach students about self discipline, emotional regulation, and community care through structured check ins and closings at all work days. 6. Improve the soil health and care for the community through beautifying lots, growing food and flowers during student work days.