The Youth Garden Project originally began in Sarah Heffron’s backyard. Initially, one program was offered to the Juvenile Court for youth to work off court-ordered community service hours. In 1997, the Youth Garden Project received an AmeriCorps Grant which increased its ability to serve the community. As the garden expanded, so did the offering of programs.

Today the Youth Garden Project sits on two acres of land next to Grand County High School. Programs offered are the following: High School Science Class, High School Apprenticeship Program, Canyon Country Outdoor Education (a partnership with the National Park Service), after-school garden-to-table classes for elementary and middle school children, Youth Garden Summer Camp and Pluggin’ In, a community service project affiliated with the 7th District Juvenile Court.