About Us

OUR STORY

Blackland Farms & Homestead Foundation is a Washington, DC–based urban agriculture and environmental education organization dedicated to reconnecting youth, families, and communities with food, land, and culture. We are an IRS classified 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

We build accessible growing spaces, teach hands‑on STEM skills, and create joyful learning environments for students of all ages.

We are a tiny but mighty farm with big dreams. Founded in 2021, our urban homestead is family run and we’ve grown over 150 varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers in the ground, in raised beds, in containers and in hydroponics systems.  We grow in non-traditional ways too – we demonstrate how to grow cucumbers and melons vertically each year.

OUR MISSION

To make agricultural education, environmental stewardship, and hands‑on STEM learning accessible to all—especially communities historically excluded from land‑based knowledge and green opportunities.

OUR APPROACH

  • Hands‑on STEM and environmental literacy

  • Garden builds and urban agriculture installations

  • Partnerships with schools, recreation centers, and community organizations

  • Practical, joyful learning that empowers youth and families

Watermelons growing in the air at Blackland Farms in 2022.


WHAT WE DO

URBAN AGRICULTURE & GARDEN BUILDS

We design and install raised‑bed gardens, pollinator spaces, composting systems, and micro‑farms for schools, recreation centers, and community sites. Every build is hands‑on, educational, and tailored to partner goals.

STEM & ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

We deliver engaging workshops and multi‑session programs that teach:

  • Plant science & life cycles

  • Composting & soil health

  • Food systems & nutrition

  • Climate resilience & sustainability

  • DIY engineering (mini greenhouses, irrigation systems, etc.)

YOUTH & FAMILY PROGRAMS

We create joyful, accessible learning experiences through:

  • Garden clubs

  • Weekend workshops

  • Family planting days

  • Seasonal harvest events

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

We collaborate with schools, recreation centers, nonprofits, and local agencies to expand access to green learning and fresh food.

HOW TO HELP

SUPPORT OUR WORK

Your partnership helps us build more gardens, expand STEM learning, and bring hands‑on environmental education to youth and families across the region.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Become a Program Partner

Bring garden builds, STEM workshops, and youth programs to your school or community site.

Sponsor a Garden or Program

Sponsors help us:

  • Build new community garden spaces

  • Provide free STEM workshops

  • Supply tools, soil, seeds, and materials

  • Support youth and family programming

We are always grateful for sponsors who believe in our mission and help amplify our impact.

Volunteer

Join us for planting days, garden builds, community events, and seasonal harvests.

Donate

Your contribution directly supports materials, staffing, and free programming for youth and families. Donate here!

Please reach out to us to discuss your ideas!