Creating Educational & Nature Equity with an Urban Food Forest Initiative

Project Overview

YENC24-220
Project Type: Youth Educator
Funds awarded in 2024: $6,000.00
Projected End Date: 02/15/2026
Grant Recipient: Asibara Forest
Region: North Central
State: Michigan
Project Manager:
Derrienne Reese
Asibara Forest

Commodities

No commodities identified

Practices

No practices identified

Proposal abstract:

Asibara Forest aims to educate youth on sustainable agriculture
practices by creating urban food forests as an outdoor classroom.
This approach enables children to learn about biodiversity, food
sovereignty, and environmental stewardship in a hands-on setting,
fostering a connection with nature. By nurturing this early
interest, we aspire to produce environmentally conscious citizens
and increase representation in STEM and conservation careers.
This holistic method not only promotes ecological conservation
but also generates employment opportunities, strengthens social
bonds, and improves physical and mental well-being. Additionally,
it empowers communities with knowledge and resources essential
for sustainable living and enhanced quality of life.

Project objectives from proposal:

  1. Facilitate the engagement of 25 children in urban communities
    in sustainable agriculture education by establishing an urban
    food forested classroom, students will help with
    design/development through build-out and maintenance.
  2. Implement two experiential learning projects that educate
    children about biodiversity, food sovereignty, and the importance
    of sustainable living. These projects will involve hands-on
    activities including planning, planting, nurturing, and
    harvesting in our urban food forest.
  3. Organize two field trips to local organic farms and
    conservation projects, and invite farmers, grocers, and chefs to
    share their experiences and introduce children to career
    opportunities in sustainable agriculture.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.