Empowering children and families in west Michigan to grow their own food
Our Story
How HOPE Gardens grew out of a dream, a diagnosis, and a bit of dirt.
Food insecurity affects 1 in 8 people in west Michigan. Among children, 1 in 5 is food insecure.
H.O.P.E. Gardens is addressing this problem by teaching people a simple, affordable way to grow their own food.
Year-Round Programs
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Year-Round Programs
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Gardening Benefits
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Mood Enhancing
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Experiential
Getting outside and learning while doing reinforces education
Community
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Fun
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Pride of Ownership
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Simple, Organic, Sustainable
Regenerative gardening recreates the conditions in which plants naturally thrive. It’s inexpensive and easy to start because It doesn’t rely on chemicals, tilling, or any special equipment.
Unlike a traditional garden, a regenerative garden is covered with mulch, which retains water and nutrients for the plants, minimized weeds, and enriches the soil for future planting.
Why teach regenerative gardening?
Simple, Organic, Sustainable
Regenerative gardening recreates the conditions in which plants naturally thrive. It’s inexpensive and easy to start because It doesn’t rely on chemicals, tilling, or any special equipment.
Unlike a traditional garden, a regenerative garden is covered with mulch, which retains water and nutrients for the plants, minimized weeds, and enriches the soil for future planting.
Why teach regenerative gardening?
Our Impact
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- Teacher
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- Student
“Our garden has impacted kids far beyond academic learning. Although they have truly benefited through the garden creation, upkeep, and harvesting, the biggest benefits that students have gained are via a deep understanding of how nature plays a role in their social, emotional, and physical well being.
- Darla England, Principal
Connecting Communities
One Seed at a Time

Julie and Rich Brunson, co-founders of HOPE Gardens, have personal experience with food insecurity and unsuccessful gardening. They are passionate about empowering, connecting, and feeding people and communities.
HOPE Gardens partners with a diverse team of teachers, administrators, community volunteers, undergraduate students, master gardeners, and other nonprofit agencies.
Connecting Communities
One Seed at a Time
Julie and Rich Brunson, co-founders of HOPE Gardens, have personal experience with food insecurity and unsuccessful gardening. They are passionate about empowering, connecting, and feeding people and communities.
HOPE Gardens partners with a diverse team of teachers, administrators, community volunteers, undergraduate students, master gardeners, and other nonprofit agencies.
