At Asawana Farms, every visit is an opportunity to plant more than seeds — we plant knowledge, confidence, and community resilience. Recently, we had the privilege of hosting 21 youths from Sandstone Care, a residential treatment center in Rockville, Maryland, at the Urban Farm Incubator (UFI), where our farm is located.
From Painful History to Purposeful Growth
We began the day by sharing the history of the land. The Urban Farm Incubator sits on property that was once a slave plantation. Standing together on that soil, we reflected on how land that once represented hardship and injustice is now being used to grow nourishing food, create opportunity, and foster healing. For many of the youths, this connection between history and present-day transformation was powerful.
Today, this same land supports diverse farmers working side by side to feed the community.
Learning How a Farm Works
Our tour began at the compost station. The group learned how we transform organic waste into nutrient-rich compost that feeds our crops naturally. We explained the importance of soil health and how composting is one of the foundations of sustainable farming.
They also learned about the 10 farms that make up the UFI community. Our farmers represent a wide range of backgrounds, including Maryland, South Carolina, Cambodia, Mexico, Nigeria, and Southern Cameroons. Agriculture has a beautiful way of bringing cultures together through a shared commitment to growing food.
For many of the youths, this was their very first time visiting a farm. They asked thoughtful and insightful questions about how crops grow, how long it takes to harvest vegetables, and what it takes to operate a working farm.
Inside the Greenhouse
Next, we visited our greenhouse, where we nurse our seedlings. We explained how a greenhouse works and why it is essential in Maryland’s cold climate. The controlled environment allows seeds to germinate and young plants to develop strong roots before being transplanted into the field.
From there, the group toured our wash station and walk-in cooler. They learned how we carefully wash and handle every vegetable before it leaves our gate. Food safety is a top priority at Asawana Farms. We ensure that all produce is properly cleaned, cooled, and stored to maintain freshness and quality for our community.
Hands in the Soil
After the tour, it was time for hands-on learning — and the energy shifted immediately. The youths were eager to participate.
They were divided into small groups:
- One group removed bitter leaf stalks from our container planters.
- Another transported compost to enrich our planting beds.
- A third group weeded bitter leaf stems in the field.
- The final group learned how to use a broad fork to prepare a new bed where we will soon plant bitter melon as part of our Food as Medicine program.
Watching them work together, ask questions, and support one another reminded us why we do what we do.
This Is What Asawana Farms Is About
At Asawana Farms, we believe that farming is empowerment. We are deeply committed to connecting with our community and teaching people how to grow organic crops. The knowledge we share is not new — it is wisdom passed down from our elders. Our mission is to ensure that this knowledge reaches the next generation.
Community resilience begins with understanding where your food comes from. When people know how to grow their own food, they gain more than vegetables — they gain independence, confidence, and lifelong skills.
Learning how to grow food is a skill that, once acquired, stays with you forever.
We are grateful to Sandstone Care and the 21 youths who spent the day with us. The soil teaches patience. The plants teach responsibility. And the farm reminds us that growth — in every sense — is always possible.