G.R.O.W.E.R. PROGRAM
GENERATING REAL OPPORTUNITIES WITH EARTH'S RESOURCES
REGENERATIVE FARMING CAREER APPRENTICESHIP | OCCUPATIONAL TRAINING | REENTRY SUPPORT FOR JUSTICE IMPACTED INDIVIDUALS
ABOUT THE G.R.O.W.E.R. PROGRAM
The G.R.O.W.E.R. program's focus is on plants, people and the power they possess to reimagine their communities through regenerative agroecology and restorative practices.
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The program provides hope and a path to agricultural careers for formerly incarcerated individuals. This allows them to become confident growers with a new set of skills — from farming and harvesting, to marketing and distribution in preparation for becoming agricultural professionals and entrepreneurs.
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Garden 31 has developed a training program that will offer opportunities for beginning farmers and ranchers to hone regenerative farming techniques, develop sound business practices that will facilitate their success and be embedded in a community of support in the early stages of their venture.
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The G.R.O.W.E.R. apprenticeship program is focused on serving the most socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. The goal is to build health, wealth, and leadership in the communities that need it most. Localized farming just got a bit more exciting and let it be known: the “veg-o-lution” is coming.
G.R.O.W.E.R. ROADMAP
PHASE I
PHASE II
PHASE III
APPRENTICESHIP
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Trainees begin the program as garden apprentices. This portion of the program includes hands-on farm training, recovery and re-entry support, and agro-business education in partnership with CSUSM and MiraCosta College. Participants know that the work they put in each day is not only a benefit to themselves and their families but also helps people to live healthier lives. Their work strengthens the community by creating opportunities for others, many of whom come from similar backgrounds.
MEMBERSHIP​
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Participants are given access to in-depth occupational training in the organic food industry at the Garden 31 farm. Members learn all aspects of farming, marketing, distribution and management in preparation for managing and operating a Garden 31 plot.
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LEADERSHIP​
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We grow organically — our members become our leaders who ultimately shape our communites and mentor the next generation of apprentices.
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