Working with Youth

The UC Master Gardener Program is dedicated to promoting sustainable gardening practices and fostering a love for gardening among youth. Engaging with young people is a vital part of our mission, and we are committed to ensuring these interactions follow UCANR policy and are safe, educational, and enriching.

Policy Overview

UC Master Gardener volunteers are encouraged to work with youth but must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. The key policies are as follows:

1. Partnership Requirement:
   • All youth projects must be conducted in partnership with schools, parents, 4-H, Cal-Fresh, or other youth-focused programs or organizations.
   • UC Master Gardener volunteers should never be responsible for youth, a partner organization or adult guardian must have responsibility for the care and custody of youth.
2. Project Approval:
   • Projects involving youth must be approved by the UC Master Gardener Coordinator.
3. Supervision:
   • A teacher, principal, parent, 4-H personnel, or CalFresh Health Educator must be present at all times during youth activities.
   • UC Master Gardener volunteers must never be alone with or responsible for the care or custody of youth at any time.
4. Youth-Focused Curriculum:
   • Projects should utilize youth-focused curriculum such as Jr MG Learn, Grow, Eat, & Go! or CalFresh TWIGS to ensure age-appropriate and engaging content.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved with youth-focused gardening projects through the UC Master Gardener Program is a rewarding experience that can inspire and educate the next generation. Follow these steps for program coordinators and volunteers to ensure a successful and compliant program:

1. Identify a Partner: 
   • Connect with schools, parents, 4-H clubs, Cal-Fresh, or other youth-focused organizations to find potential partnerships.
2. Develop a Project Plan: 
   • Create a detailed plan outlining the project goals, activities, and the roles of all involved parties.
3. Get Approval: 
   • Submit your project plan to the UC Master Gardener Coordinator for approval.
4. Ensure Supervision: 
   • Coordinate with your partner organization to ensure a responsible adult is present during all activities.
5. Use Approved Curriculum:
   • Implement a youth-focused curriculum to provide a structured and educational experience for participants.
     • Jr MG Learn, Grow, Eat, & Go! 
     • CalFresh TWIGS

Example Projects

School Gardens: 
Collaborate with schools to establish and maintain vegetable and flower gardens. Integrate garden activities with the school’s curriculum to enhance learning.

Garden Workshops:
Conduct workshops on topics such as composting, plant biology, and sustainable gardening practices in partnership with youth organizations.

Partnership Projects:
Support fellow statewide programs such as CalFresh Healthy Living, UC or 4-H clubs in developing gardening projects, teaching gardening skills, and encouraging community service through gardening.

Contact Us

If you are interested in working with youth through the UC Master Gardener Program or if you have any questions about our policies and procedures, please contact: 

Missy Gable
Director
mjgable@ucanr.edu 
(530) 750-1394

Together, we can cultivate the next generation of gardeners who are passionate about the environment and sustainable living. Thank you for your dedication to making a positive impact on the youth in our community!