Community youth garden in Richmond Hill, Ontario, nourishes communities and minds
Submitted by the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation
In Ontario’s Richmond Hill, an amazing youth-powered project is transforming a simple patch of land into a thriving community hub! The Kids Right to Know community garden, led by environmental advocate Rachel Parent, is more than a garden—it’s a movement. Supported by the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation (among other donors), this vibrant space grows fresh food, future leaders, and a sense of optimism.
“This garden gives people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life a unique opportunity to connect with one another and our earth,” says Rachel, who founded Kids Right to Know at age 12. “Our mission extends beyond food production. We aim to educate volunteers on regenerative food systems, seed saving, pollinator protection, and environmental resilience, as a community.”
Each year, about 50 to 70 student volunteers roll up their sleeves to cultivate the 80- x 65-foot garden, which produces over 1,000 lbs (453.59 kg) of organic vegetables, herbs, and pollinator-friendly plants. Their harvest feeds local food banks, neighbours in need, and countless passersby influenced to start gardens of their own.
The Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation is proud to help fuel this youth-driven project. “Supporting gardens like this is at the heart of what we do,” says Dennis Charland, executive director. “It’s about planting knowledge, growing communities, and harvesting healthier futures for all.”
As we enter the season of giving, Plant a Seed Foundation and Kids Right to Know invite Canadians to join the movement. Whether through donations, volunteer hours, or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps nurture the next generation of youth leaders.
Visit seewhatgrows.org or kidsrighttoknow.com to get involved. Together, let’s cultivate a future where youth grow solutions, from soil to society.