About

Project Grow is a space for community collaboration where people can engage in conversation and action to advocate for human rights, the value of art in society, urban farming, and the pursuit of passions.

Our Vision is a World Where

Meaningful connection to one another, to the land, to the community is not limited but supported, appreciated, and celebrated.

We Believe That

  • Meaningful work accompanied by fair wage is a human right.
  • All people have gifts to contribute to the community.
  • Everyone deserves a supportive environment, regardless of one’s challenges.
  • A sense of purpose, offered by a valued activity, is essential for all.
  • Art making is both a valid path in life and a valid career choice.
  • Everyone is unique and deserves a tailored, supportive environment so that they may thrive.
  • Everyone is an artist, student, and a teacher.
  • The relationship with one’s food source is essential for a healthy life.
  • Learning is a life long task and privilege

Our Goals Are

Project Grow is a progressive program for adults of all mental diversities that aims to:

  • Advocate for the rights of all to meaningfully connect with the community.
  • Establish careers in farming and the arts where there previously was no opportunity for fairly compensated labor.
  • Allow everyone to experience self-satisfaction and growth through farming and artistic expression.
  • Move away from a culture of segregation to one of integration and appreciation.
  • Support everyone in exploring their passions and experiencing growth by providing an encouraging and appreciative environment.
  • Embrace the unique gifts and challenges that each individual possesses.
  • Share the art work and harvested produce with the community and fairly compensate the artists and farmers involved.
  • Collaborate with other artists, fostering meaningful connections within the art community.

History

Natasha Wheat, an internationally exhibiting interdisciplinary, socially engaged artist, proposed Project Grow to Port City Developmental Center, a vocational day program in Portland, Oregon, in January of 2009. Project Grow was founded on the principle that adults with developmental disabilities deserve the right to create and share meaningful art, establish a closer relationship with their food source, and lead a physically healthier life. Within nine months, Project Grow saw the launch of a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) from its thriving farm, had several gallery exhibitions, focused on general wellness, and developed strong and persistent relationships with the neighborhood and the community around it. The artists and farmers of the program have earned paychecks from art sold, lessons taught, and as recognition of their efforts and contribution to the farm.

As an innovative and progressive program, Project Grow continues to lead a dynamic existence. Today, the North Portland Farm established by Project Grow has developed satellite locations and continues to seek more opportunities to do so in order to accommodate the demand and offer fair wage to more farmers. Monthly events hosted by by Project Grow, such as lectures, concerts, and workshops, are establishing the studio and farm as a radical and inclusive cultural center for the community.

Login