Sowing Millions, Growing Minds with Seeds of Change

Earlier this week, we had the privilege of attending the Sowing Millions, Growing Minds with Seeds of Change Event at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. Along with Jeanne Nolan and the Edible Gardens at the Zoo, Seeds of Change launched their new program to teach children all about growing their own vegetables and herbs.

To kick off this great program, Seeds of Change is donating 25 million organic seeds to schools nationwide. Teachers can request a package of 100 randomly selected 100% certified organic seeds, just pay $14.95 shipping for them. The first 1,000 schools nationwide to sign up will receive a box of organic vegetable, herb and flower seed packets. Seeds of Change also awarded a grant to Green City Market making it possible for Chicago Public School children to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo Edible Gardens on field trips to learn about organic gardening.

Doug and I both love gardening, both our parents loved growing fresh vegetables in their home gardens as well, so this event was something that is close to our hearts. After a short introduction, it was time for the kids to get their hands dirty and experience how fun and easy it is to work in your own garden sowing seeds and planting seedlings.

Jeanne Nolan, gardening expert at The Edible Gardens, explained to the children what the trowels were for and exactly what they would be doing.

They planted cabbage and cauliflower plants that will mature as the season progresses and the kids can visit the Edible Gardens anytime during the Summer and see what the plants look like as they are growing.

The children also helped plant the peas under the trellis and later were able to taste fresh peas.

After the planting was done, we all headed inside for Chef Chris Skolmutch to teach the children how to cook with the vegetables after they are harvested. He made a delicious Taco Salad and a Stir-Fry with fresh vegetables and some of the Seeds of Change Certified Organic products available at your local grocer that help support the Seeds of Change Program.

To get the children started at home, Seeds of Change put together a bag with their Garden Kit, Seeds, Rice and a coupon for $1 off a Seeds of Change Certified Organic product.

Hosea Sanders from ABC7 News tells you a little more about the program…

Disclosure: This post is part of a campaign I am participating in with the Walmart Moms. Walmart has provided me with compensation and product for this post. My participation is voluntary and opinions, as always are my own.