Episode Five: “The Farm Changes You”
Duration: 17:24 | June 3, 2025
In Episode 5, “The Farm Changes You,” we hear from Grow Dat Youth Farm, a community farming project that works with youths and young adults to distribute over 50,000 pounds of fresh produce annually in New Orleans. Youth assistant crew members Izara and Carson share how the farm has shaped their leadership, deepened their connection to the environment and sparked their passion for access to healthy food for all.
Joined by Co-Executive Director Julie Gable, the episode explores how Grow Dat is cultivating a new generation of leaders—young people who are not just growing food, but growing their power to lead. This episode is a testament to how growing food can transform lives, foster community and build a more sustainable future.
Why It Matters: The Future of Farming
Grow Dat’s work goes beyond fresh food—it’s about training the next generation to care for Louisiana’s land and communities. Programs like Grow Dat are helping New Orleans respond to urgent challenges:
- 1 in 6 Louisianans faces food insecurity and cannot feed themselves or their households.
- Sustainable agriculture reduces land degradation, supports local economies and mitigates climate change.
- 30–40% of food is wasted due to appearance standards.
Digging Deeper: Reflection Questions
- What stood out to you about how young people view food, farming and their role in the community?
- Were you aware of the concept of food waste and that a large amount of produce is wasted because of how it looks?
- How can New Orleans better support efforts to reduce food insecurity and food waste?
- Why is it important to engage young people in outdoor and sustainability-focused programs like Grow Dat?
- How can Grow Dat get more community members involved in learning about sustainable farming?
Sustainable Agriculture for a Better Tomorrow
Grantee Spotlight
Grow Dat Youth Farm is a community farming project that works with youths and young adults to distribute over 50,000 pounds of fresh produce annually to help combat food insecurity and develop sustainable farming methods. Grow Dat aims to nurture a diverse group of young leaders through growing food, which educates and inspires the community and creates personal, social and environmental change.