How did Veggielution start?
In January 2007, we started gardening in people’s backyards near campus. We had lots of students interested in learning how to garden, and 4 backyards growing with veggies. In late 2007 we realized that things would be easier if we had one large space instead of many separate ones. A friend showed us Emma Prusch Park, and we asked for a space to grow veggies there. We became a project of the Emma Prusch Foundation and broke ground on our 1/3 acre original plot in April 2008. In June 2009 we broke ground on the acre.
What’s a Community Farm? Is that like a Community Garden?
Sort of. A community garden is split into seperate parts, and each person has thier own space. Our community farm is managed as a whole, so everyone can participate.
Who is the Emma Prusch Foundation?
The Emma Prusch Foundation is a non-profit that was established at the same time as the park. Their mission is to ensure that the master plan of the park is followed, and that the park maintains San Jose’s rich agricultural heritage and a rural country feel.
Who owns the land?
The land is part of Emma Prusch Farm Park, which is a San Jose City Park. It is owned by the City of San Jose.
Are we a non-profit?
We are not our own non-profit yet. We are currently fiscally sponsored by the William James Association. We can receive grants and tax deductible donations through them. They do our accounting and payroll too. The William James Association promotes work in the arts, environment, education, and community development. It is a non-profit community service corporation operating under Section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code. Through its Fiscal Sponsorship Program, the Association assists individuals and community organizations consistent with its service mission by providing administrative support, tax-exempt status, and fiscal nsponsorship.
Where does the food go?
Our volunteers take home food, and we donate the rest to a soup kitchen. Soon we will start an on-site farmstand, and selling to restaurants. We will price our food so it’s affordable to everyone.
Can my group volunteer?
As long as the group is middle school age or older. We can accomodate small groups at our regular workdays, and larger groups can schedule a seperate time to volunteer. Contact us if you are interested: info@veggielution.org
How can I get more involved?
You can become a Workday Leader to help run workdays, or a Community Outreach Leader to help spread the word. If you want to do even more, you can join a committee to help run the organization. If you are interested in that, email us at: info@veggielution.org
My organization might like to partner with Veggielution. Who should I talk to?
Contact Amie Frisch: amie@veggielution.org
Where are you at with getting additional land at the park?
We are currently writing a proposal that details our vision for the vacant acres at the back of the park. We plan to partner with the City of San Jose to develop a multi-acre community farm.
