Extension Master Gardeners help kids "Bee-Come the Change!"

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu

Zinnia seeds are one of several plants included in students’ supplies.

For many years, Extension Master Gardeners have spent the summers in the Horticulture Teaching Garden on the St. Paul campus, sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm about gardening, clean water, pollinators and growing food with youth.  Gopher Adventures was one of the many kids’ programs offered by UMN Youth and Community Programs. Like everywhere, in-person classes like these changed in 2020.

While in-person classes are still uncertain, a new and exciting program for youths ages 14 to 17 has blossomed for 2021 called “Bee-Coming the Change” and Extension Master Gardeners will be leading educational sessions again!

Students will receive boxes loaded with everything they need to grow plants just about anywhere. Master Gardeners will engage with the students via webinars about everything from seed starting and the importance of soil to plant and garden care and how to grow pollinator plants and create habitat. The program involves education, science, and learning about growing good food and building community.

Do you know a young person who is passionate about community wellness, eager to learn how to grow and cook with their own fresh produce, or interested in learning more about agriculture, civic engagement and social justice? Bee-Coming the Change is a great opportunity for youth to learn from professionals across different disciplines, and apply their learning to real-world experiences to become changemakers in their own communities.

Find information about this program, financial assistance to participate, and other University Youth Program information on the Youth Programs website.

Please contact Ella Aho, ypsummer@umn.edu, with any questions.