About Nika Colley:
Nika is a student at Cornell University, expecting to graduate in May of 2023. As a dual major in Environment & Sustainability and Animal Science, she is focusing on food systems and environmental justice policy in her career. Nika chose to be apart of this project with CCE Monroe County this summer because of her interest in how food and agriculture can change lives and grow communities.
About the Project:
As part of CCE Monroe County’s South Lawn Project (SLP), a re-imagination of the office’s south lawn as a outdoor education space, a half acre farm will be used for the GROWS program. Growing Releant and Outstanding Work Skills (GROWS) is a professional development program for young adults with barriers to employment. The farm will be used as a tool to reinforce soft skills and teach horticultural practices. Food produced on the farm will be delivered by program participants to community organizations. Once the program participants are considered ready to hold a more long term position, they will receive help to find their next job opportunity or continuing education program. Nika will be the farm manager for the summer, ensuring that the farm runs smoothly, and working with program participants on their job skills.