Green Tomorrows in 2012
The 2012 Green Tomorrows program has been going strong since its amazing April 21 launch! Through its three components—hands-on learning, workshops, and the CSA—fifty under-served community members are developing skills for urban farming and for life; receiving fresh, healthy produce; and participating in the development of a just and sustainable food system in Washington, DC. April 21 was the big orientation day! Lunch was donated by DCCK's Fresh Start Catering, and guest speakers Max Finberg and Acacia Salatti came from White House’s Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships to address the participants and members of the public. During his speech, Finberg said he was impressed that so many people from the community came out to be a part of this amazing program. Salatti also commented, "The Green Tomorrows program with Common Good City Farm provides a great example of how individuals and families can receive hands-on education about gardening, nutrition, and healthy living. These types of programs serve as a great community asset in public health outreach by helping people be active and eat healthy." Over the winter, the program was restructured to better fit the needs of underserved community members. In early spring, the Green Tomorrows team canvassed recreation centers, libraries, churches, and neighborhood residences, tapping into a strong grass-roots interest in food justice and community empowerment. While interest in this innovative educational program has been steady over the past few years, this season's team has been determined to find an outstanding, diverse, and committed group of participants. Outreach volunteers took time to speak with interested individuals one on one, developing a mix of workshops and hands-on urban farming experience. Participants learn skills in healthy eating and urban farming. In addition, they are provided with produce directly from the farm which is otherwise difficult to afford. Whole Foods Market provided 100 reusable grocery bags for the Green Tomorrows program and our income-qualified CSA. The Farm has already grown hundreds of pounds of produce, most of which has gone to underserved community members. "The participants are extremely enthusiastic about growing and enriching their community," says Program Fellow Beza Mehiretu. The program will continue through the end of the growing season. Although it is at full capacity, don't hesitate to reach out about getting on a waiting list or signing up for next year’s program! Email Beza
A record 80 applicants from all over DC attended the GT orientation
Max Finberg, Director, USDA Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships
"I know with all my heart this ole dog will learn some new tricks...I can't wait! I had a great time today and felt right on point when it came to the serious minds involved in my labor of passion and health, Gardening." —Donald, following Green Tomorrows orientation