Describe the Issue or Situation.

In Lee County, many residents have limited exposure to diverse vegetable varieties and may lack knowledge of how to prepare them in healthy and appealing ways. Encouraging residents to explore fresh, locally grown produce can promote healthier eating habits and increase awareness of the benefits of gardening.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

The Lee County Extension Office Ag & Natural Resources Agent and FCS Agent collaborated to host the Tasting Through the Garden: Raised Bed Edition program. This initiative utilized the office’s raised bed to grow various unique vegetables, including four types of cauliflower (Depurple, Flame Star, Apex, and Veronica), Gran Vantage cabbage, and two varieties of sweet potatoes. The Ag Agent provided a brief educational session on the growing process, while the FCS Agent demonstrated recipes featuring these vegetables. Recipes were sourced from PlanEatMove.com to ensure they were both nutritious and easy to prepare. Recipes included: Kale and Cauliflower Salad, Sweet Potato Crisp, and Cabbage Noodle Casserole.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

The program engaged 4 participants, primarily senior citizens, however, it was open to all to attend. Many participants took extra samples of the cauliflower to share with family. So, indirect contacts were made as well. 

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

The program successfully increased participants' knowledge and appreciation of unique vegetable varieties and their preparation. Many attendees had never seen or tasted colorful cauliflower before, with one participant remarking, "The green (Veronica) looks prehistoric!" Another participant was excited to take raw cauliflower samples home for her family to try.

Through this program, participants gained practical gardening skills and a greater appreciation for the benefits of fresh, locally grown produce. The initiative fostered healthier eating habits and inspired community members to explore gardening as a sustainable way to improve their diets.