Our Mission
Collaborative Garden Solutions is a social enterprise dedicated to bridging the gap between environmental sustainability and community empowerment. We provide gardening resources, education, and support to former foster youth and other marginalized communities. Our mission is to support healthier lifestyles, enhance food security, and nurture ecological stewardship through collaborative gardening initiatives. By leveraging community engagement and educational workshops, we aim to cultivate self-reliance and promote sustainable practices.
Who We Serve
"As a former foster youth who has experienced Iron-Deficiency Anemia due to malnutrition and undergone a blood transfusion, I faced significant challenges in finding affordable, healthy iron rich leafy greens. This motivated me to start gardening, which has proven to be one of the best decisions of my life. Through this journey, I explored new produce, experimented with recipes, and learned to prepare nutrient-dense meals. Upon discovering the additional mental and physical health benefits of gardening, I made it my personal mission to bridge the gap for former foster youth aged 18 to 24 who are seeking community support, food security, essential life skills, and employment training."
— Ashanti K. Jones, Founder
Research indicates that approximately 20% of former foster youth become homeless immediately upon aging out of the system. Within four years, only half secure employment, often at minimum wage, and fewer than 10% graduate with a college degree. A significant portion experiences food insecurity, with over half relying on food assistance programs at some point. Access to community support and essential life skills training is crucial for their transition to independence and overall well-being.
Author Manuscript on Nutritional status of foster children in the U.S.: Implications for cognitive and behavioral development
In addition to serving former foster youth we strive to provide quality care to local communities, individuals, and non-profit organizations that serve those interested in sustainable gardening and environmental stewardship. Marginalized communities often face barriers such as limited access to affordable, nutritious food, high rates of food insecurity, and economic constraints that exacerbate these challenges. Studies suggest that food insecurity affects over 20% of households in inner cities, where many residents live in food deserts, forcing them to rely on less nutritious options. Economic instability further contributes to these issues, making it increasingly difficult for residents to access healthy food.
What We Offer
Interactive
Gardening
Workshops
Embark on a journey of exploration and learning through our diverse gardening classes. Gain insights into Sustainable ways to create your herbal or vegetable garden with techniques such as site selection, planning, planting, pruning, fertilizing, harvesting, food preservation techniques and so much more. Participate in engaging workshops designed to ignite creativity and enhance your gardening skills.
HOW IT WORKS
We host one in-person workshop per month that is followed-up with our virtual monthly check-in to allow time between learning & practice. We offer this dual workshop opportunity to assist with any questions or troubleshooting needs you may have. This also allows you to collaborate with your fellow gardeners to share any new ideas or tips.
