Success Story: Growing Health and Access — Sprouts & Microgreens Workshop Flourishes in Urban Community

On March 20, 2025, a dynamic collaboration between Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agent Denise Donahue and Horticulture Agent Brandon George brought healthy living and hands-on gardening directly to the community with their workshop, “Sprouting Health: Growing Microgreens at Home.” Over 31 participants gathered to learn how to grow sprouts and microgreens in small, indoor spaces — a practice ideal for urban residents with limited access to outdoor gardening or fresh produce.

Urban food deserts remain a significant challenge across the U.S., with more than 23.5 million Americans living in low-income areas more than one mile from a supermarket, according to USDA data. In many urban areas, access to fresh, nutritious food is limited by both geography and affordability. This program was designed to empower residents with simple tools to grow their own nutrient-dense food at home, no matter their living situation.

The workshop emphasized both nutrition and practicality. Brandon highlighted the impressive health benefits of microgreens and sprouts, including their concentration of vitamins C, E, and K, and antioxidants — often in higher amounts than their mature vegetable counterparts. Brandon also provided hands-on guidance in sprouting techniques, growing methods, and harvesting tips.

To bring the classroom to the kitchen, several microgreen-infused dishes were prepared by Denise Donahue and served, showing participants just how easy and delicious it can be to incorporate sprouts and microgreens into everyday meals. From microgreen pesto to sprout-topped flatbreads, the tasting component helped bridge knowledge and real-life application.

Impact Highlights:

• 31+ participants attended the class.
• 90% of attendees tried something new during the session.
• Most of the participants went home with seeds and instructions to start growing their own microgreens.
• Participants reported increased confidence in growing food indoors and understanding of the nutritional value of microgreens.

This workshop is a powerful example of how Cooperative Extension programming can address both nutrition education and food access challenges in urban settings. By giving individuals the skills and tools to grow their own greens at home, Denise and Brandon are helping their community cultivate healthier habits—one sprout at a time.