By the numbers
620+ jobs for youth in our leadership programs since 2011
50,000 pounds of sustainable produce grown annually
1,450+ K-12 students visit our farm each school year
850+ visitors, guests, and farm volunteers each year
On our farm:
Since 2011, we have grown over 450,000 pounds of food. In our 2.5 acres of cultivated fields, we have built soil organic matter to an average of 7%, which indicates a thriving underground ecosystem of microorganisms, insects, and fungi. Healthy soil with a high percentage of organic matter takes years to build, absorbs water during flooding events, and retains moisture during droughts.
On our farm, we cultivate over 50 distinct varieties of fruits and vegetable crops. In addition to our annual crops, we have planted 74 thriving shade and fruit trees on our 7-acre site, which demonstrates our commitment to biodiversity and climate resilience as we steward this land.
Knowing that I am helping grow food for New Orleans is a good feeling. I feel proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone and doing this job.
—Geiby, Crew Member 2015
After our core leadership program:
93% of youth say Grow Dat helped them develop skills for future employment
90% of youth say they feel more comfortable giving and receiving feedback.
93% of youth report that they see the impact of historical events on our food system today.
89% of participants say Grow Dat helped them see themselves as a leader.
97% of youth report that Grow Dat helped them understand how food gets from farm to table.
93% of participants say Grow Dat was a positive turning point in their lives.
95% of participants have experienced substantial growth in communicating with people who don’t share the same demographics (e.g. race, class, gender)
93% of youth report that Grow Dat helped them identify their strengths and areas for personal growth.