Who We Are

Gethsemane Community Garden is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates a community garden in the inner city of Minneapolis that offers private plots to gardeners for a nominal fee and shares fresh produce and other resources with people in need. The Garden encourages sustainable gardening practices and education, provides a place of beauty and of sustenance for pollinators in an urban environment and engages the community in our efforts through collaborations and partnerships.

Gethsemane Community Garden’s mission is to increase awareness about the importance of food justice and to engage the community in our efforts. Hundreds of pounds of fresh produce from plots gardened by Garden members are donated throughout the season to local food shelves. Additionally, a large portion of the Garden, called “The Giving Garden,” is open to our neighbors and those passing by to pick fresh produce during the season. Next to the Giving Garden is a shaded area with tables and benches attractively bordered by flowers for anyone to rest and enjoy the beautiful natural setting of the Garden in the midst of the city. By opening the Garden to the community, we strive to create a positive, safe, and nurturing downtown community space.

MISSION

To cultivate a sustainable community garden in an urban setting. To create a welcoming green space open to all and intended to promote ongoing ties of cooperation and understanding with and within our diverse local community. To mitigate healthy food inequality by donating our fresh produce to neighborhood food shelves.

VISION

To enhance the livability of our community by greening the neighborhood, creating an attractive space for the enjoyment of our neighbors, and educating local residents about the value of sustainable gardening in order to grow food for their own consumption.

VALUES

Create a safe and non-threatening environment for all people, especially children.
Practice open, honest, and respectful communication that includes attentive listening.
Respect diversity and foster a sense of community.
Apply a strong work ethic and be accountable for your actions.
Take pride in what we do but apply humility when appropriate.
Share knowledge and model behavior.
Nurture our youth so they develop healthy eating practices.
Rejuvenate the earth and the environment organically and minimize the use of chemicals.

To help guide and instill our mission, vison and values we have a dedicated Board of gardeners;
Nicole Pettit, Cheryl Grasmoen, Krissy Fair, Peter Smith, Shannon Canella & Jill Ressemann.

We are truly thankful for all that they do for us and our community!