On April 22, 2010, Blue Ridge Job Corps Center partnered with community organizations to establish the community garden and plant the first seeds.  Pending the success of the garden, students plan to reap the benefits by supplying vegetables and herbs to our cafeteria, so they can be used in cooking and the student salad bar.

 During July, students and staff also plan to attend the Smyth County Farmer’s Market in Downtown Marion to sell the vegetables and herbs.  All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society and will be reinvested to the community garden funds for supply seeds and equipment for next year’s garden.

 The event was hosted by the BRJCC Garden Club.  5 Staff members and 12 BRJCC students are involved in the ongoing maintenance (weeding, watering, cropping) of the garden.  Two community partners are also involved.