Flourish™ : Youth Food, Farming, & STEM Program

Empowering the Next Generation Through Food, Farming, and Access

In a St. Joseph county nearly 1 in 5 children face food insecurity and almost half of all neighborhoods are classified as food deserts. Many of our students live in neighborhoods where healthy food is out of reach and opportunity feels even farther. But we believe change starts with a seed and we’re here to plant it.

“Flourish™” is more than a program. It’s a movement to transform communities and classrooms into living labs where science comes to life. Where students learn to grow their food, build businesses, nourish their bodies & communities, and create systems of change.

This program isn’t just about farming or cooking. We are raising up a generation of thinkers, doers, and changemakers who understand the power of food. These students know how to grow their own nourishment, feed their bodies and minds, and use that power to uplift others. They learn by doing, think critically about the food system, and step into leadership as problem solvers in their schools and neighborhoods.

Our Program is powered by the belief that every child deserves access to nourishing food and knowledge, this program offers a meaningful way for South Bend to grow student wellness, confidence, and leadership one seed at a time.

Built in Partnership

The Flourish™ Program is powered by the collective impact of two key partners:

• The Dream Collective, Inc. – our nonprofit hub for food access, youth empowerment, and education

• Vegan Bites by Jas – our plant-based food partner providing hands-on culinary experiences, high-quality vegan meals, and professional mentorship in healthy food entrepreneurship

Together, we blend farming, food, and future-focused training to raise up confident, creative changemakers one meal, one skill, and one child at a time.

K–5th Grade: Little Sprouts, Big Impact

Playful, hands-on learning rooted in food and farming.
Kids explore where food comes from, grow veggies with hydroponics, taste new snacks, and get messy with food-themed science, art, and cooking projects.

6th–8th Grade: Future Farmers & Food Scientists

Curious minds meet real-world food systems.
Middle schoolers manage hydroponic units, cook healthy meals, dive into nutrition science, and tackle food justice issues through group projects and presentations.

9th–12th Grade: From Seed to CEO

Real skills, real careers, real impact.
Teens explore food entrepreneurship and run mock businesses. From ServSafe certification to branding and budgeting, they gain tools to launch food-focused careers and solve real community challenges.