The Urban Farm teaches the value of positive community engagement and the importance of allocating resources for self-sufficiency. Consisting of several acres of cultivated farmland on the Pro-Vision campus, the farm is overseen by a certified horticulturalist who works with Pro-Vision’s staff to create meaningful connections between the farm, local growers and the Sunnyside community.
The Urban Farm is a strictly independent, commercial outreach tool that integrates itself with the school, the Manhood Development Program and the community. It is designed to be self-sustainable, viable and profitable.
SEEDING HOPE
The Urban Farm grows crops that are harvested three times per year. It also has beehives for honey and an orchard that houses fig, lime and other fruit trees. Produce from the farm is sold at various farmers’ markets, local restaurants and also to local grocers. A portion of the proceeds is donated back to the community.
VALUABLE LESSONS
The participants who work on the Urban Farm are guided through different aspects of becoming responsible workers. Among a number of learned skills are marketing, accounting, sustainable land use practices and design. The learning that happens on the farm is beneficial to all students, no matter their desired vocation.
COMMUNITY GARDEN SCIENCE AND OUTREACH PROGRAM
The outreach aspect of the Urban Farm is designed to draw in mothers to the wonders of preparing fresh vegetables. Soon, this program will include an outdoor kitchen to provide efficient demonstrations and assist with preparation. Pro-Vision will also conduct monthly workshops by Greater Houston Area chefs to share the best learned and developed practices.
This program will provide the foundation for academic discussion of health and nutrition. Connecting the Community Garden and earth sciences delivers a critical link between science and life processes, while instilling in young people and in the community the value of unprocessed foods. The benefits of these connections result in future community independence and success.