Program Spotlight: Grow Dat

ABOUT GROW DAT YOUTH FARM

At Grow Dat Youth Farm in City Park, youth from across New Orleans come together on an urban farm to grow healthy produce and learn leadership skills like public speaking, trying new things, and working with people who are different from you.

Each year, 70 young people aged 15-22 engage in a six-month paid internship program to grow 25,000 pounds of produce to sell, donate, and take home to their families. A third of the produce grown on the farm is shared with community organizations like BreakOUT!, a program that seeks to fight the criminalization of LGBTQ youth in New Orleans. Everyone has a voice at Grow Dat, and everyone’s voice is heard, regardless of differences like race, class, gender, or sexual orientation.

At Grow Dat, leadership not only means developing workplace and communication skills, but also the ability to think critically and imagine the future we want—a future where everyone can access culturally relevant, affordable, and nourishing food.

Upon graduation from Grow Dat’s Core Leadership Program, alumni have the opportunity to apply for programs like the Food Justice Project or the SEED Project. These projects allow alumni to continue their engagement and work in the community, like building garden beds or bringing fresh produce to households throughout New Orleans.

Want to become a Grow Dat youth?

Grow Dat begins accepting applications for their spring leadership program in the fall. Follow them on Instagram or visit their website to learn when and how to apply!

Want to learn more?

Check out growdatyouthfarm.org, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @growdatyouthfarm.