The Organic Garden Program
Our garden program is delivered to youth incarcerated at the Marin Juvenile Hall. The program supports youth in detention by providing a structured activity that builds self-esteem, teaches valuable life skills, reduces stress, promotes a sense of responsibility, and supports potential vocational opportunities through horticulture training, all while offering a positive outlet for emotional expression and connection to nature.
Gardening programs for incarcerated youth provide many benefits, including:
Improved mental health: Gardening can help reduce stress and anxiety, and increase positive thoughts.
Increased self-esteem: Gardening can help participants feel productive and proud.
Vocational skills: Participants can develop vocational interests and skills in horticulture.
Reduced recidivism: Some programs have shown lower recidivism rates for participants.
Improved relationships: Gardening can help participants improve relationships with family and others.
Community reconnection: Gardening can help participants reconnect with the natural world and their community.
Sense of pride: Participants may feel a sense of pride from making a contribution.
In our garden, seeds are planted and hope is cultivated. Students gain a deeper understanding of the current global food system and food justice, while learning the basic principles of organic gardening, healthy eating, stewardship and the abundant life that begins with the soil.
“When we grow plants from tiny seeds, we give them what they need to grow strong. We talk about what we need to grow strong too.”
- Youth in Marin Juvenile Hall Garden
