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3F Backyard garden
The Future Forward Foundation (FFF) a non-profit 501(c)3 organization was founded five years ago in efforts to create more economic opportunity for Pinal County. They are headquartered in Florence but they provide services throughout Pinal County including the Copper Corridor communities of Superior, Kearny, Winkelman, Mammoth and Oracle.
Planting a backyard garden
One of the first projects the foundation started as a means to combat the food insecurities in the region. For many communities in Pinal County there is limited to no access to fresh fruits and vegetables. To combat this one particular issue the foundations applied for grants to help fund the development of personal and community gardens. Currently the foundation has helped to grow 55 backyard gardens and has a major producing garden. The stipulation for the backyard gardens is that 20 percent of the produce grown in those backyard gardens be donated to the local food banks for distribution in the local communities. Currently there is a waiting list for individuals wishing to grow a backyard garden. In order to have a garden the participant must have good soil for a garden as well as water source.
Planting a backyard garden
FFF is currently adding a series of classes and seminars to their list of services. With funding recently received by Pinal County the foundation plans to offer classes to help teach people how to grow and maintain a garden, cooking classes to teach how to cook with the seasonally grown produce, along with classes on how to start your own non-profit and how to write grants. The foundation also plans to teach classes on emergency preparedness and food storage.
Future Forward Foundation has also been instrumental in working on beautification projects in Florence as well as some housing rehabilitation at low income housing apartments.
Planting a backyard garden
Lina Austin the Executive Director for Future Forward encourages the start of non-profit organizations. “There is a huge well of need in our county and the county could tolerate more non-profits to help fulfill the needs within the county,” she said. If you are interested in having a back yard garden or would like to volunteer for the Future Forward Foundation you can reach Lina Austin at futureforward@cox.net or call her directly at 520-313-2134.
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona. Those planning on attending the Chamber luncheons do need to RSVP prior to the meeting, please call Deb McKee to RSVP at 520-827-1773.
Backyard bounty
Another 3F Garden
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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