Happy Winter Solstice to All!
Hello friends,
Thank you for following our work. New or longtime, we are glad to be growing our network, and now, we seek your support and input on our next steps for where we grow in West Central.
We Are Moving!
Where we’ve been:
For some time, our organization has shared space with the West Central Abbey. We are grateful for this partnership, which has allowed us to invest in place-based work in the West Central neighborhood. During this time, we have expanded from a seasonal program to year-round programs, which are responsive to youth needs, interests, and opportunities, from the farm to the kitchen.
Why we’re moving:
As we pivot to year-round programming, our space needs have changed. Over 92% of the youth in our 2023 cohort also expressed that they wanted program spaces which would allow them to grow and process food in different ways and to a different scale.
Packing up and storing!
Where we’re going:
Let us know what you think!
We are looking for community input on possible spaces that can meet our needs and would love to hear from you!
Youth-centered cooking, meeting, and planting spaces:
Our long-term goal is a commercial kitchen that works for youth and has space for our team to gather and grow food together.
Donated or rental space for the short-term:
While we may be in a position to buy a permanent location in 2024, we are currently open to donated or rental spaces.
Mobile programs near you in the meantime:
In this transition period, we are exploring mobile programming at various locations in West Central and Downtown Spokane as we develop our long-term plan.
We are grateful for your ideas:
Thank you for your support as we work towards building a space that works for our community!
Program Priorities for 2024
Rooted in West Central:
In 2024, our programs will be open to youth from the West Central neighborhood for free, with scholarships available for youth outside of West Central. We aspire to engage youth in our food systems well in our neighborhood before expanding to other parts of Spokane.
Tailored to age:
Our 2024 programs will be structured to more effectively channel the energy of youth in specific age ranges. Age group eligibility information will be announced in early 2024.
Focused on community health:
Programs will focus on supporting positive health outcomes in our community. This will include produce boxes to support food access for youth in our programs.
Stay Tuned:
Community Board Meetings in 2024
Starting in 2024, we'll host regular Board meetings open to the public to improve our communication with and connection to our community. More details on this development to follow!
Wishing All Happiness & Health This Season!
We look forward to reconnecting with you in 2024. Thank you for your support in 2023. We appreciate you!
