Youth Leadership Program

In 2024, Alan Day Community Garden and MSAD 17's Robert's Farm are teaming up once again to offer a collaborative Youth Leadership Program! Youth leaders will spend two weeks at each location where they will develop skills in leadership, gardening, cooking, This program is totally free, and open to all aspiring or current youth leaders entering grades 7 - 12.

MSAD 17's Robert's Farm

At Robert’s Farm, youth leaders will design and facilitate lessons for elementary summer school students, learn to navigate the trails and forest ecosystem at Robert’s Farm Preserve (as well as nearby trail networks!), and learn to communicate effectively with each other as peers and leaders. The two weeks at Roberts Farm will culminate in a two night camping expedition!

Alan Day Community Garden (ADCG)

At ADCG, youth leaders will learn to grow their own food, cook healthy and locally-sourced meals, and step into leadership in our community. Each day will be spent tending to fruit and vegetable crops, preparing community lunches, and practicing leadership through self reflection, group activities, and community engagement.

About the Program

The Alan Day Community Garden and Robert's Farm Youth Leadership Program is a transformative summer experience where teens work together to build resilience in themselves and in our community. Program participants are youth entering grades 7 - 12 who will work hard, learn all about organic gardening, strengthen leadership skills, learn to make healthy meals together, and have fun every day! They will learn, practice and model good interpersonal communication and feedback skills. Youth leaders will gain an understanding of global and local food systems and learn about a variety of gardening topics from community leaders and educators.

Returning youth can apply for competitive, paid leadership positions growing food for our community. We believe that creating paid jobs and empowering young people to play an active role in our local food systems can make positive change in our community and world. Hired Youth Leaders will have completed a previous summer of the program, agreed to meet specific expectations and attendance requirements, and have been selected from a competitive group of youth applicants. They will take significant leadership roles within the program, mentoring other youth and representing the program during public events.

Interested students can apply by completing this google form.