Our Story

In 2013, a group of 17 passionate individuals came together with a shared vision: to grow not just plants, but a stronger, more connected community. Recognizing the need for a collaborative effort to cultivate vegetable starts, they approached Central Rivers Farmshed, whose mission of growing a resilient local food community aligned perfectly. Through this partnership, the Growing Collective was born as a new program.

Over time, both Growing Collective and Farmshed evolved, and while their missions remain complementary, the Growing Collective has discovered its 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 initiative poised to meet the growing needs of its members.

For the Growing Collective, plants are only part of the story. At its heart, this initiative 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.