Since 2019, The School Garden Doctor has expanded its impact and deepened its relationships. Whether developing a grant proposal, designing a learning sequence, or facilitating strategic planning, we empower educators and engage the community in a way that centers three overarching themes:

JOY, JOBS, & JUSTICE.

🌿 We plant joy. Imagine a world where every plant is a reminder of joy. From pulling weeds to planting native habitat, we promote positive interaction with the environment.

Last week during the after school club, Dirt Girls, a participant pulled out a weed that was longer than he is tall! Interacting with plants in this way not only develops a sense of accomplishment, it also lowers stress and reinforces lasting connections with the living world.

🌱 We aim to grow jobs. We believe in a growth mindset. Partnering with organizations to provide experiential learning opportunities, we introduce youth to sustainable career paths that harness potential and enhance community.

Recently, Carrie attended two Career Day events where she spoke to more than 200 students. She shared insights about how to pursue green jobs, such as the ones featured here.

🌎 We cultivate awareness of justice. Most recently, our Monarch Education Project has been spreading the word about declining monarchs and the role we play in habitat destruction. Did you know that eighty percent of avocados come from plantations located in deforested monarch habitat? To decrease your impact, buy California-grown avocados, available seasonally at Raley’s and the Napa Farmers Market.

Speaking of the Napa Farmers Market, drop by our table tomorrow, November 1st, where we’ll be hosting a Dia de los Muertos activity and kicking off our participation in Napa Valley CanDo’s end of year Give!Guide campaign.

CanDo’s Give!Guide Napa Valley starts tomorrow!

For further reading

• Want to Save the Planet? Start With Joy.
• Green Careers: 2024 Job Opportunities and The Future Sustainability
• 16 Environmental Justice Examples, Issues and Actions