The Environmental Center, a nonprofit dedicated to sustainability in Central Oregon, announced that its Garden for Every School grant program is now open for applications. The initiative targets public and private Pre‑K‑12 schools as well as youth organizations throughout the Bend area, offering financial support to build new gardens, upgrade existing ones, or gain access to nearby community garden sites.
Why school gardens matter
According to the Center, outdoor learning experiences help children develop healthier habits, stronger social‑emotional skills, and a deeper appreciation for nature. Activities such as planting carrots, searching for earthworms, or simply spending time in a green space are described as “hands‑on outdoor education” that can make students happier and more engaged.
Grant details and history
Since its launch in 2018, the program has distributed more than $140,000 to schools across Central Oregon. Each year the Center raises funds to support projects that align with its mission of embedding sustainability into daily life. Eligible applicants may propose to:
- Construct a garden from the ground up
- Improve an existing garden with new beds, irrigation, or tools
- Partner with a nearby community garden to provide additional learning space
Applications are open to teachers, principals, school staff, students, and parent volunteers who have a clear plan for how a garden will enhance their educational environment.
How to apply
Interested parties should visit the Environmental Center’s website at www.envirocenter.org for application guidelines, deadlines, and contact information. The Center’s staff are available to answer questions and help applicants refine their proposals.
About the Environmental Center
The Environmental Center’s broader mission is to translate sustainability concepts into practical, local action. Its focus areas include community building, youth education, energy innovation, waste reduction, and advocacy for environmental stewardship. The organization operates out of its facility at 16 NW Kansas Ave. in downtown Bend.
By supporting school gardens, the Center aims to foster a generation of students who understand the value of healthy food, ecological responsibility, and the joy of working outdoors. The grant program reflects a growing recognition that education extends beyond the classroom walls and that green spaces can serve as vital teaching tools for both academic and personal growth.
Schools and youth groups in Bend and the surrounding Central Oregon region are encouraged to submit their proposals promptly, as funding is limited and demand is expected to be high.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
