The youth have developed, and help others to develop, attitudes that foster self confidence, camaraderie, and interest in learning and pride in what they have accomplished. Last fall, our Miracle Garden youth volunteers made a presentation about their project to the attendees of the National Conference of the American Community Gardening Association in Indianapolis, Indiana. The auditorium was filled and our youth received rave reviews. The Miracle Garden has succeeded despite innumerable challenges. As any Arizona Gardener knows, gardening in Phoenix is tough.
Farmable land is difficult to find.
Soils are rock-hard and riddled with caliche. The summer sun and dry heat are unforgiving on plants. Yet, as tough as farming may be, our youth volunteers have proven themselves stronger. All live well below the poverty level and most rely on public assistance. Some youth leaders ride the bus for as long as 45 minutes to reach the Garden each week.