Urban Tree Connection-Youth Apprenticeship Program
Mission Statement
The Urban Tree Connection (UTC) works to build a neighborhood rooted food and land system through community leadership development and land based strategies in West Philadelphia.
We also have a Youth Apprenticeship Program, where Staff mentor youth in urban farming, local food distribution and leadership development. UTC’s Youth Apprenticeship Program hires and mentors 10-12 high-school aged youth that primarily live in Haddington. This unique five-month paid apprenticeship introduces Black youth to urban agriculture. Each Apprentice receives 1:1 mentorship from UTC Staff in the areas of urban farming and gardening, local food distribution, and community education and outreach. The goals of this program are to: Teach young people of color how to grow food sustainably and distribute it within their neighborhood Develop a critical analysis of historical and current social conditions locally and globally that shape our food systems Cultivate youth’s sense of agency and leadership development towards addressing community needs
