Growing Grounds Farm and Nursery celebrated its 40th anniversary with the community on Saturday. The event was filled with live music, food trucks, plant sales, free ice cream, and family fun. Transitions-Mental Health Association joined in the festivities, highlighting the importance of this unique employment program that has been serving the community for four decades.
Growing Grounds was California’s first social enterprise in 1984. The program offers employment opportunities for adults living with mental illness by combining the therapeutic aspects of gardening and outdoor work. Michael Kaplan, the Community Engagement Director, emphasized the significance of reaching this milestone for the program that also serves the community.
Initially started as a farm that produced lettuce and produce for local restaurants, Growing Grounds later transitioned into a nursery specializing in drought-tolerant and native plants. Over the years, it has provided employment and training to over 2,000 individuals living with mental illness.
To learn more about Growing Grounds and its impact on the community, click here for additional information.
