As we wrap up our first week of summer program, we are celebrating by hosting a family day on the West Side, visiting our new partners Frogtown Farm, visiting with former Lyndale Farm Steward Shanna, and eating Pad Thai for lunch! We are honored to have witnessed the leadership of our Farm Stewards this week as they led summer program. For the last round of staff introductions, please meet your St. Paul Farm Stewards Alice Martin, Teng Lee, and AJ Zozulin!
Alice has been part of Youth Farm for nearly as long as Youth Farm has been on the West Side. This is her 16th summer! She has played almost every role at Youth Farm from Project LEAD to Farm Steward to Summer Chef. She brings with her not only a passion for the work, but also a kind heart and gentle personality that connects deeply with the youth she serves. She, alongside Teng Lee and a cohort of other young adults, developed Youth Farm’s Farm Steward Program. She has played an integral role on the West Side most recently serving as the Interim Director this year. Alice is currently the Greenhouse Manager and Summer Staff on the West Side. Learn more about Alice and how to contact her here.
Teng first jumped on board with Youth Farm in 2011 as a summer staff. He brought with him years of gardening experience from partner organization Urban Roots. During his first year, he worked alongside fellow Farm Steward Alice and a cohort of other young adults to develop Youth Farm’s Farm Steward Program. In addition to his experience at Youth Farm, Teng also works in childcare and community organizing. He bring with him contagious energy, thoughtfulness, and a true passion for the youth he engages with. Teng is the Summer Program Manager for the West Side neighborhood and is the on-site contact for youth and families in that program. Learn more about Teng here.
AJ joined the Youth Farm team in 2011, Youth Farm’s first summer in the Frogtown Neighborhood. He has returned year after year as a summer staff and returns this year as a Farm Steward and Summer Program Manager in the Frogtown Neighborhood. AJ brings with him his strong organization and leadership skills, a passion for food and farming (he also works at Trotter’s Cafe, a cafe that has long supported local, fresh food), and a strong desire to learn from the youth he serves. AJ is the Summer Program Manager for the Frogtown Neighborhood and is the on-site contact for youth and families in that program. Learn more about AJ here.
AJ’s enthusiasm for lunch leaves him in shock!
Farm Stewards Teng, Jesus, and Alice
Alice and her signature brightly colored hair prep the lettuce harvest with the West Side crew.
AJ works in Frogtown Youth Farm’s first farm site.