OUR COMMUNITY GARDEN IS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD WOMEN AND MEN

Councilperson Desley Brooks brought together the East Bay Conversation Corps (EBCC) and Oakland's Community Development Block Grant to design a four-acre Burbank Elementary School solar and edible community garden. Although just two years old, the garden has produced pounds of vegetables including greens, tomatoes, celery, bell peppers, strawberries, kale, asparagus, other organic vegetables and herbs.

"The garden was created for the enjoyment of local residents and it's a way to help Burbank students’ jumpstart an understanding and appreciation of biology," explains Bill Ritchie, EBCC Field Operations Coordinator. "For local families it’s like having their own garden, but better. But to keep it as the precious and bountiful resource it has become, we need the community to come in and take ownership. It will certainly be worth it".

People are needed to keep this garden growing, so Desley Brooks’ Council office is recruiting dedicated volunteers to garden a few hours a week. "The garden needs good old TLC to prepare for spring and summer harvest, and whatever time you can provide to help will make a world of difference" states Councilperson Brooks. "By volunteering, you will do more than growing healthy and delicious food, you'll also take part in a fun and relaxing activity that lets you enjoy the sunshine, socialize, and acquire great skills" continues Brooks. “The success of the community garden project cannot happen without volunteers' efforts, so please join us”!

Sign up today by calling Olivia at the East Bay Conservation Corp, 510-992-8022 or Councilperson Brooks’ office. Applications may be obtained on Councilperson Brooks’ website at www.oaklandnet.com.