More than 120,000 people in Jefferson County experience food insecurity, with limited access to fresh, locally grown produce, especially in the West End (Dare to Care, 2019). Urban growers in these communities often face barriers such as lack of infrastructure, tools, certifications, and technical support needed to scale production or meet food safety standards.

In response, Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension Community Resource Development Program launched the Urban Growers Program in the summer of 2025. Designed to support both aspiring and experienced urban farmers, the program equips a 30-member cohort with the knowledge and resources needed to grow nutritious food right where it’s needed most.

The program is supported by a USDA grant led by Dr. Maheteme Gebremedhin, the vision of Program Leader Gill Finley, and local facilitation provided by Kelly Rawalt, Local Food Systems Coordinator. The curriculum includes four workshops throughout the summer, each pairing classroom instruction with hands-on field experience.

On August 16, 2025, Kentucky State University hosted the final core workshop of the season, focusing on organic agriculture and sustainable growing practices. Participants explored organic soil management, composting, and pest control methods that reduce chemical inputs and improve soil health. The workshop blended classroom instruction with field demonstrations designed to help urban growers apply sustainable principles on a small scale.

Participants started the day at The Food Literacy Project farm where they learned about the space from Celeste Orozco.

Research and Extension Associate in Organic Agriculture Linelle Rivera Rodriguez provided a tool demonstration, primarily for organic weed control.

The cohort then spent some time using the tools to help weed the plots before heading indoors for the classroom session.

Assessment results showed a 130.6% increase in knowledge and confidence among participants, with the greatest gains in understanding compost management, organic pest control, and soil fertility practices. As one participant reflected:

“I left the workshop feeling more confident about improving my soil health and reducing costs through composting. I’m already planning changes for next season.”

Through the Urban Growers Program, Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension is bridging the gap between research-based agricultural practices and community application, empowering residents in Louisville’s West End to cultivate healthy food systems from the ground up.