The Vocational Certificate in Urban Greening and Sustainable Landcare is an 18-week education program for returning citizens in Philadelphia. Students from the Philadelphia Department of Prisons spend 12 weeks learning about organic agriculture, plant care and crop harvesting through experiential learning at sites including a 200-tree orchard, hoop houses, raised beds, and greenhouses. After receiving early parole, students then complete 6-week paid internships with PHS and Temple University.
Participants in the program will:
- Learn about sustainable living through horticulture and agriculture through real-world experience and problem solving
- Broaden their work experience through paid internships
- Develop a sense of competence/self-improvement/purpose and connect with the land and sustainable practices through gardening and farming
- Live healthier lives in all aspects, from nutrition to exercise and emotional well-being
- Receive support and additional educational opportunities post-release
To find out more about the program, including how to donate to help our students, contact Vanessa Williams (vanessa.williams@temple.edu).
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
- Winner of the UPCEA (University Professional and Continuing Education Association) Mid-Atlantic 2018 award for Outstanding Non-Credit Program
- Recipient of a grant from Slow Food Philly
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