An American Opportunity - Community Gardens

If you have never tasted a home grown tomato or fresh picked corn now is your chance for an amazing treat.  Community gardens are in full swing and the more volunteers they have the more they are able to produce.  You don't need experience, just a willingness to get your hands dirty. If you don't want to do that garden gloves are very affordable.  Wear your sunscreen and you can get a nice tan in the process.

The benefits of a homegrown garden are many:

• fresh vegetables,
• meet new friends,
• gain experience so you can grow your own garden next year,
• beautify your community,
• participate in the joy of watching something grow,
• free family activity,
• exercise, fresh air, and sunshine.

Most community gardens provide vegetables not only to those who work in them but the surplus is taken to local food banks for distribution.

I have listed a few sites below as examples of what is going on.  To find one in your community use your search engine by entering "Community Garden Your City" or contact your county extension office.   I spoke to one coordinator and found that she is developing 5 acres and this is her first year.  They have carrots, lettuce, corn, and many other varieties growing.

http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/index.cfm?c=39846
http://www.dosomething.org/project/tonopah-community-garden
http://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=community+garden&find_loc=Boston%2C+MA