Our Story

We have grown into a new independent nonprofit!

The Growing Collective sprouted when a community member approached Central Rivers Farmshed (a local nonprofit) about getting a group together to pool knowledge and tools to grow jointly. In 2013, the first meeting started with 17 members made up of gardeners, farmers, and community group leaders. Growing began in Farmshed’s window, moved to a hoop house and a school, then into the current renovated greenhouse.

Over time, both Growing Collective and Farmshed evolved, and while their missions remain complementary, the Growing Collective has discovered its own unique niche. Centered on empowering individuals to grow their own food, cultivating sustainable practices, and fostering deep community connections, the Growing Collective now stands as an independent nonprofit organization, poised to meet the growing needs of the community.

For the Growing Collective, plants are only part of the story. At its heart, this organization is about people—connecting them through shared learning, collective action, and the transformative power of gardening. Together, the Growing Collective believes in food equity, sustainability, and the creation of thriving environments where both plants and people flourish.

Come join us!