Take a tomato plant...The start in an ongoing cycle.
A lot more goes into a tomato than we realize and we can get a lot more out of a tomato than we know.
The first thing that we had to do is talk to people. We are creating this as an educational startup. We are starting with 3rd graders but it does not end when school lets out or when they move on to the next grade. The core of this endeavor is longevity and sustainability. The students will be a part of this project over the summer and into the next year and beyond. The knowledge becomes cumulative and they are able to look at themselves as students and teachers to those who follow.
We have set up a group where people can share data and tips about their plants and places all across the country where there are different issues to be considered. We are talking to people in Seattle, Los Angeles, and Haiti. Best of all, the kids are doing most of the work and learning as they go.
100 third graders in Atlanta, Seattle, Augusta, and Greenville have worked pretty hard to get these plants growing and the rest is up to those who take on the responsibility of caring for them.
Creating a community...
The first thing that we had to do is talk to people. We are creating this as an educational startup. We are starting with 3rd graders but it does not end when school lets out or when they move on to the next grade. The core of this endeavor is longevity and sustainability. The students will be a part of this project over the summer and into the next year and beyond. The knowledge becomes cumulative and they are able to look at themselves as students and teachers to those who follow.
They are not just becoming growers though. Few of the student/teachers are looking at becoming farmers when they grow up. Still, as part of this, they are able to interact with very specifically with a wide range of people who are able talk about and educate our students on other things. Some of our students want to be chefs and we talk to chefs about what to do with what they grow. They are able to engage with engineers and work on design ideas for the farm and beyond. Some of the students are designing programs and networks for gathering information about this project. Growing tomatoes can lead to a lot of things!
We have set up a group where people can share data and tips about their plants and places all across the country where there are different issues to be considered. We are talking to people in Seattle, Los Angeles, and Haiti. Best of all, the kids are doing most of the work and learning as they go.
They are also learning about their community as they address issues like composting and waste management and water management. They are learning about economics and food deserts. They are going to be part of growing food for Meals on Wheels and for a village in Haiti. They are learning how things they are doing have an impact in the real world.
This is just a single step in the ongoing cycle and we want to encourage people to recognize that. If you are in the Atlanta, Augusta, Greenville, and other areas and you happen to see one of our crates, take a tomato or whatever else is in there. We have hundreds of seedlings waiting to go to backyards, window sills, balconies and anywhere else people need food. Become a part of the conversation and help educate some people. At the very least you get tomatoes!
If you would like more information on this project, feel free to contact us at Thelifecooperative@gmail.com
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