It's something I hope I can keep up on the outside to keep off the streets. In the spring of 1996, Kevin and the other residents of Unit 5C began working with the CES Urban Gardening program. The youths cared for the garden throughout the summer while they learned basic horticulture. In time, the project became a form of therapy, teaching them the value of nurturing and caring and fostering a respect for life and nature. Kevin and one of his friends so enjoyed the gardening project that they conducted their own research into specific plants, how they grow in the wild, and their medicinal and industrial uses.
Most people are afraid to come in here.
They look at us as gangbangers. The unit now has plants growing all through the common area. It's a whole different atmosphere. This year, the outdoor garden will be expanded, and boys from other units will become involved in planting, weeding, watering and harvesting.