Garden 31 transforms lives and landscapes by empowering opportunity youth, using regenerative agriculture as a vehicle for change. We cultivate future farmers, entrepreneurs, and land stewards who reflect the rich diversity of our communities, while restoring ecosystems and expanding access to fresh, nutrient-dense foods. By fusing climate-friendly farming, lived experience mentorship, and hands-on job training, our programs tackle environmental degradation, economic inequity, and community health from the ground up.
Generating Real Opportunities With Earth’s Resources (G.R.O.W.E.R.)
G.R.O.W.E.R. Apprenticeship – 10 youth apprentices received career training and education in regenerative agriculture; teachers reported that 9 of these apprentices (90%) performed better academically and exhibited improved behavior – students faced repeated disciplinary action prior to their engagement with Garden 31.
G.R.O.W.E.R. Pre-Apprenticeship – 30 students and 5 families were engaged weekly in school gardens built and maintained by Garden 31 at General Murray and Alta Vista high schools through a service partnership with Vista Unified School District.
Character Cultivation – In partnership with East Mesa Juvenile Detention Center in San Diego, Garden 31 provided weekly hands-on learning and character cultivation skills for over 40 youth detainees. The students learned to build and manage their own garden, completing all seasonal planting and maintenance, supported by our staff. Students also participated in character cultivation circles, where they explored deep truths regarding their inner selves, their relationships with others and their environment.
College Workshops – Supported by a partnership with San Diego Mesa College, Garden 31 conducted monthly workshops (12 total) for more than 70 Mesa College students. These workshops provided hands-on learning in gardening, sustainability, emotional intelligence and life skills.
Food Access – 7,132 lbs. of produce farmed by Garden 31; 30% of this produce was distributed at no-cost through TERI Inc. to individuals in their residential program living with developmental disabilities; the remaining 70% was sold at low-cost for redistribution to disadvantaged families living across San Diego’s “Promise Zone.”
Student Testimonies
“Garden 31 taught me that, just like plants, we must listen to our needs and tend to ourselves. My participation left me feeling inspired – thanks Chris and the team for all the wisdom and the beautiful food forest you leave behind for Mesa future generations. ‘Thanks’ isn’t enough for all the work you do, and the light you are in the world!” – Ella
“I really enjoyed looking at different pests in the garden and marveling at their diversity. I learned that scale bugs thrive on excess nitrogen – another reason not to over-fertilize plants! Very inspired by your dedication to people. It’s clear that for you, the reason to practice thoughtful food cultivation is to uplift people. Thankful for your care and compassion.” -MC
“My favorite memory is when we gathered around in a circle and talked about gratitude, while creating a soilless mix for seeds. I always felt hopeful after our sessions. Thank you, Chris, for your inspiring words. You’ve allowed my passion for sustainability to grow by showing me the importance of agriculture and given me opportunities in more ways than one to create change.” – Jaelene