This has been an fruitful year for the Grow Your Own program; as our workshops and our garden take permanent shape, we analyze what has worked and what needs to be trashed. There is no doubt our program is growing – the numbers speak for themselves. Our participants have already topped 13,000 lb of harvested produce this year – up 3,000 from last year and climbing. I am hopeful that we will be able to get that up to 15k for a 50% harvest increase.
Our biggest problem since the program’s inception has always been retention; families get distracted and slowly wane from the workshops and their gardens as fall approaches. Deni & I are currently looking at ways to restructure the program in a way that will create a platform for more consistent contact and dialogue between participants and educator. We are also considering a mentor program for 2nd years to take on a a new participant under their wing – with the hope of facilitating stronger knowledge for second years, someone to call on for new families, and form a more solid community between participants.
As the leaves change color, I am reminded of the amount of time that has briskly passed since I started at ASD. I am thankful, daily for Deni, who has helped me navigate my passions in life, and is continually equipping me with a breadth of knowledge in a very short period of time.
Happy harvest,
Brian
Hi Brian:
I learned about your program last year from a woman who I was chatting with in the PO here in E. Falmouth, MA.
When I got home I went online to see what this was all about. I was impressed with what I read and loved the idea of helping people help themselves. Of course I signed up for emails to see how things were going. Now that we are in the Fall and things are winding down I wanted to pass along accolades to you! I think your idea of mentoring is fabulous and will help keep families focused. I wish I lived closer because I would love to get involved. I have been gardening for years and loved educating others so they can help themselves.
Anyhow, just wanted to pass along accolades to you and all those who give of themselves selflessly.
Best,
Susan Carpenter
Retention has been my cross to bear for three years Brian. If you find out how to keep them “down on the farm” let us know. Thanks.