This Pumpkin Patch is an annual event that is hosted by New Magnolia Grows. They came to the Plant a few years back and started as a small farm in the basement of the facility. Eventually they pitched the idea and got the right amount of resources and funds to build a farm field and outdoor greenhouse directly next to the Plant.
New Magnolia Grows is an organization apart of the Chicago Youth Service Corps which aims at bridging the socioeconomic gap between communities within the neighborhoods of Chicago, with the main intent on creating leaders from the youth. All from creating events, activities, and partnerships, Chicago Youth Service Corps has created strong student leaders from their program.
New Magnolia Grows has more of a focus on creating an environment in which students can create and live sustainably all within the city, so that one would not have to drive far in order to experience that like a pumpkin patch or farm.
Our Experience
Meeting with Michelle Morgan, one of the co-founders of New Magnolia Grows, was an awesome experience! It was very interesting to find out how the students involved with this event are also participating in a career program that helps them get ready in the real world in terms of finding jobs. It was a treat to also meet and interview the students there as well. Most of them had a fun time at the pumpkin patch all while exclaiming their hopes and dreams to come.
For more information visit their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newmagnoliagarden/