As part of Rural Action’s Youth Act program, and in partnership with Athens County’s Big Brothers Big Sisters, ten teens from Amesville worked with experienced organic gardeners raising vegetables and herbs on the Far Valley Farm. During the season they harvested bushels of tomatoes, basil, beans, cucumbers and zucchini. The teens began growing their seeds in a greenhouse, but later moved their work to the fields, where they had to learn to meet the challenges of pest control, weeding, and local wildlife.

In addition to growing produce, the teens also learned about canning, healthy food choices, and the local food economy. Although they held a roadside market in Amesville, the teens were also allowed to bring their extra produce back to their families. All of the teenagers involved are from the Amesville area, and half of them are currently in the foster care system.