Specifications and Abstract

       This OP is a full reflection of the last two growing seasons I've spent working at Penacook Community Center's (PCC) garden through the Jump & Sprout Program in Penacook, New Hampshire. I loved this job in ways I have never loved a job before. I cannot describe the empowering feeling after a day's work at the garden, knowing that come harvest day, we would be feeding over a hundred children of low- to mid-income families and several dozen adults through two food banks and an elderly center.

      My hope is that this portfolio will be used by the next garden managers and that they, too, will add documentation of the processes used, the perennials established, the preferred techniques, the persistent pests, the highs-and-lows, the successes and learnings.

      In addition, I write this with the director of PCC, Deb Cuddahy, and the grantors of the garden in mind. Without Deb's hard work and the financiers kind contributions, this project would never have touched as many lives--and tummies--as it has. The impact is impressive, and with more awards the Jump & Sprout Program and gardens could have significant, long-lasting and widespread effects on the community of Penacook.

      Most importantly, the children of this program are the future of Penacook, and they deserve this garden more than I deserve a grade on this portfolio. This is ultimately for them, so that they can be inspired to eat well, appreciate the origins of food, play in the dirt, recognize vegetables, and grow their own nourishment.