By Andi Anderson
An Indy non-profit hosted its monthly volunteer day Saturday at its community garden, regardless of the weather. This event allowed Hoosiers to tend to the land while learning about agriculture.
Octavia’s Visionary Campus (OVC), located at 2856 S. Meridian Street on the city's south side, occupies 17 acres that were once the Hafer Family Farm.
Recently taken over by the Kheprw Institute, the campus is inspired by writer Octavia Butler and serves as a living learning laboratory for local residents.
“The idea of this campus is to honor Octavia Butler and her mission to address common issues like food deserts, lack of access to food, and lack of education surrounding growing food,” explained the campus’ caretaker, Alex Sangsuwangul.
Kenneth Hawkins, a 17-year-old participant, attended Saturday’s event to tend to the garden. He is part of the non-profit's Next Generation Farmers Program, which introduces youth to agricultural principles and practices.
"Particularly youth of color have less opportunities and less access to land. We’re trying to create this space so that there is a place for them to come work the land [and] learn about the earth,” said Sangsuwangul.
“This is just a positive outlet for energy,” added Hawkins. "I just harvested that massive zucchini, so it always feels great to see the fruits of our labor literally."
Hawkins spends his summer weekdays working in the garden, finding passion in the precise and detailed work. The organization focuses on four main tenets known as “The Four E’s”: Empowerment, Economy, Education, and Environment, aiming to cultivate these values beyond the garden.
“It taught me some tenacity to keep going,” said Hawkins. "It taught me to be a leader, a listener, a follower, stuff that's important in all facets of my life."
OVC grows a variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables, including squash, corn, beans, tomatoes, and watermelons, sharing the harvest with the community. The organization holds volunteer workdays every second and fourth Saturday and neighborhood open houses every first and third Thursday, along with youth programming.
This weekend's volunteer workday was rescheduled due to weather, continuing the organization's commitment to fostering community engagement and agricultural education.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Indiana, Education