Greetings!
Last year, the GenesisHOPE board of directors enlisted several community leaders, staff and clergy as advisers to help us think deeply and strategically about our vision of sufficient sustainable livelihood for all. We prayed, pondered, pushed, pulled and stretched our thinking around our mission to achieve our big audacious vision -- what is our call? We landed on an even bigger rock by finally deciding that GenesisHOPE's vision of sufficient sustainable livelihood for all begins with food security for all!

We  believe that a sustainable local economy driven by community-based
agri-businesses will provide food security for all. Take a look at our strategic directions. You'll see that our urban agri-business programs, services and products are designed to create a culture of health, wellness and economic empowerment. Together, with a multitude of community partners, leaders and agencies, we can end hunger!

Staying true to our roots, youth development is the central focus that guides all of GenesisHOPE's work. The Young Sprouts Food Entrepreneur Internship Program addresses the social determinants of how youth view food and nutrition, land and energy, and exposes youth to hands-on practical application of food production, food processing and retail food operations. The program is shaping future leaders in the food industry. 

The interns operate the SeedsGROW Farm, Young Sprouts Farm Stand and the Islandview Farmers Market. We hope you'll stop by and show your support for the young interns that are actively engaged in the "good food" movement.


Hi!

I'm Andrew Kirkland, the president for the last three years. I am proud to say that this year the Young Sprouts are expanding our operations. We are hiring 20-30 interns! Come check us out for a really cool experience.

 
WHATS COMING UP
Spring has sprung (although I could not tell when I woke up to three inches of snow the other day). Either way, we are working hard to advance the vision. So, keep these important dates in mind.

April 6-10, 2015 | 9am - 1pm
Summer Jobs!
 Job Readiness Workshop
April 25, 2015 | 9am - 1pm
SEMI Synod Emergency Food Program
First Conference Networking Session

GenesisHOPE and the Southeast Michigan Synod of ELCA are taking a closer look at emergency food in our region. We have 120 Lutheran congregations scattered across 10 counties. How do we work smarter and not harder to not only provide relief, but how do we address root causes?  -- Can you say COLLABORATION!

May 12, 2015 | 9am - 1pm
Our KitchenSYNC Grand Opening
After jumping quite a few hoops and overcoming various hurdles, we are happy to celebrate the grand opening of a network of shared-use community kitchen space located inside Lutheran congregations. And, we are honoring our early supporters! More details to follow as we get closer to the date.

June 10, 2015 | 4pm - 7pm
Islandview Farmers Market Season Opening Day
 Talk about festivities! The Young Sprouts are planning a healthy, fun filled summer for folks of all ages. Don't miss grand opening day. We are currently accepting applications for vendors.
 
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Thanks for the Support!
The youth, board members and staff would like to thank all of our supporters! Your continued support is building healthy minds, bodies and communities. And, here's a shout out to acknowledge some of our big fans:
Thanks again for making a difference!

Sincerely,

Jeanine C. Hatcher 
Executive Director