$1,050 raised by 8 donors
1% complete
$100,000 Goal
At the Mill City Teaching Farm in Dallas, Texas, we’re dedicated to providing educational experiences in sustainable agriculture and urban farming. Our farm is a vibrant resource where individuals and families can learn about growing their own food and understanding local food systems through hands-on programs in gardening, composting, and sustainable practices. Our goal is to create a deeper connection between people and the land while promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement. To enrich our educational impact, we integrate art into our initiatives, featuring installations, murals, and creative workshops that blend artistic expression with environmental themes. This approach not only enhances our farm’s environment but also inspires creativity and a love for learning. In addition to our agricultural and artistic endeavors, we are committed to addressing food security issues, supporting local food networks, and fostering a knowledgeable, self-reliant community. We collaborate with schools, host community events, and provide engaging opportunities for people of all ages to connect with agriculture in our urban setting.
The Mill City Teaching Farm was founded in 2015 by Alendra Lyons, a Dallas native with deep personal ties to the Mill City area. Her connection to the neighborhood is rooted in her family's history, as her grandmother built a home there in 1951, a home where Lyons grew up and continues to live today. This enduring presence in the community has provided Lyons with a profound understanding of its history and needs. Drawing inspiration from her grandmother’s legacy, Lyons established the farm with a vision to improve local food systems and promote environmental stewardship. Her dedication to integrating sustainable agriculture and art into the farm’s programs reflects her commitment to both honoring her family’s heritage and enhancing the neighborhood she calls home.
Mill City has a complex history marked by its evolution from an industrial center to a diverse urban neighborhood. Originally known for its milling operations, the area has experienced significant demographic and economic changes over the decades. Historical racial segregation and discriminatory practices have impacted housing, employment, and community development, contributing to longstanding social and financial challenges. The decline of industrial activities further exacerbated economic instability in the neighborhood. In response to these issues, recent revitalization efforts have aimed to foster economic growth and community development. Among these efforts is the Mill City Teaching Farm, which plays a crucial role in addressing local needs. The farm provides educational programs in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, integrating art with agriculture to engage the community and promote social cohesion. By offering hands-on learning and fostering community involvement, the Mill City Teaching Farm contributes to the ongoing revitalization and enrichment of Mill City, helping to build a more inclusive and resilient neighborhood. We invite you to be part of our journey, whether through a donation, volunteering, or sharing our mission with your network. Thank you for helping us grow and thrive!
Read more about Alendra: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/commentary/2020/01/16/dallas-mayor-demands-crime-plans-and-task-forces-he-should-just-assemble-an-army-of-women-like-alendra-lyons/
The Mill City Teaching Farm's mission is to provide educational and recreational opportunities for young people and a safe and inviting place for the community that is environmentally, financially, and socially sustainable. We aim to provide hands-on, experiential education in sustainable agriculture and food systems. We aim to teach and inspire people about local food production, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. The farm offers programs and activities such as workshops, farm tours, and volunteer opportunities to promote a deeper understanding of where food comes from and how it is grown. Our goal is to build a more resilient and informed community by connecting people with the land and the processes involved in growing food. The Mill City Teaching Farm is committed to creating a vibrant community resource with engaged residents by improving infrastructure, providing an educational safe-haven, and supporting local businesses to preserve and protect the legacy and heritage of the historic Mill City Community.
The Mill City Teaching Farm is celebrating 9 years of being established. This year, we are seeking to renovate the space to better accommodate students learning about agriculture on a new level. We need a restroom, new irrigation system, an updated chicken coop, an updated space for the rabbits, new greenhouse plots, new fencing, storage for supplies, a fire pit, concrete driveway installation, a washing station and more. (See Future Plans tabs for more information)
At Mill City Teaching Farm, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. We recognize that systemic inequalities and historical injustices have created barriers for many communities, particularly those marginalized by race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, and ability.
Our Commitment:
Accessibility and Inclusion: We strive to make our programs and resources accessible to all, regardless of background or identity. This includes ensuring physical accessibility, offering language support, and providing financial assistance for those in need.
Representation and Participation: We are committed to amplifying the voices and leadership of underrepresented communities within our organization. We actively seek diverse perspectives and prioritize the participation of those who have historically been excluded from agricultural and educational opportunities.
Education and Empowerment: Our curriculum and programs are designed to reflect and respect the diverse cultures, histories, and experiences of our community members. We aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to advocate for food justice and sustainable agricultural practices in their own communities.
Equitable Partnerships: We build and maintain partnerships with organizations and individuals who share our commitment to equity and justice. These partnerships are grounded in mutual respect, transparency, and a shared vision for a more equitable food system. The Mill City Teaching Farm embraces diversity through its collaborative efforts with local Dallas artists and its inclusive programming. By partnering with a diverse group of artists, the farm infuses its educational workshops with a wide range of cultural perspectives and artistic styles. These workshops allow participants to explore sustainability and agriculture through various artistic mediums, promoting creativity while deepening their understanding of environmental stewardship.
Continuous Improvement: We recognize that achieving equity is an ongoing process. We are committed to continuous learning, self-reflection, and adaptation to ensure that our practices and policies reflect our values. We actively seek feedback from our community and hold ourselves accountable to our equity goals.
At Mill City Teaching Farm, equity is not just a goal; it is a fundamental principle that guides all of our work. We believe that by working together, we can create a more just and sustainable future for everyone.
Organization name
Mill City Teaching Farm
Causes
Education - STEM, Arts & Humanities, Parks and Greenspaces
Operating Budget
Less than $100,000
Counties Served
Dallas
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latinx, Native American
BIPOC Leadership
Executive Director/CEO
Address
4722 Collins Ave