It’s time to gather what you need to complete the task. Find recycled supplies for your project or repurpose old materials, such as wood, tires, or bricks. How can your class save money and make the project more environmentally friendly? Identify possible suppliers, taking stock of resources you already have access to or connections you or your teacher have already made with local businesses. Are there parents or teachers who may be willing to donate supplies? Your class could host a garden supplies drive, asking adults to bring in gently used tools. Local parks or farms may be willing to donate compost. Remember: you need supplies for both the initial build and the long-term upkeep.

Every summer Common Good City Farm in Washington, D.C. welcomes a new group of local teens to participate in their six-week Youth Employment Program.

Reach out to organizations and individuals that might become sponsors of the project. Make a list of local garden associations, plant nurseries, and Master Gardeners to ask for involvement or support. These companies could pay to have their logo on a sign in the green space. Develop a one to two minute pitch, explaining why community members should support the project. You may want to turn the pitch into a video, PowerPoint presentation, blog, or social media campaign. 

Dig in Deeper: Design t-shirts to sell for a fundraiser. Get the t-shirts in bulk from a local company and sell them at a higher price to raise funds. Who in class can sell the most t-shirts?