Growing Power

Will Allen holding fish

Growing Power was a non-profit organization and urban farm based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. Founded in 1993 by Will Allen, a former professional basketball player and corporate sales leader, Growing Power was dedicated to providing people with access to healthy, high-quality, safe, and affordable food, especially in urban areas. The organization played a pivotal role in the urban agriculture movement, promoting sustainable farming methods, food security, and community engagement through a variety of innovative farming techniques.

History

Growing Power was established in 1993 when Will Allen purchased a nursery and began to transform it into a productive urban farm. The organization grew from a small operation into a nationally recognized leader in urban agriculture, sustainability, and community food systems. Growing Power's initiatives included the creation of community food systems that helped improve food security in urban neighborhoods, the development of aquaponics systems, and the implementation of composting and vermicomposting programs to enrich soil and reduce waste.

Programs and Impact

Growing Power developed several key programs aimed at achieving its mission. These included:

• Community Food Systems: Growing Power worked with communities to develop local food systems that increased access to affordable and healthy food. This involved the creation of community gardens, the establishment of farmers' markets, and the development of youth education programs.

• Aquaponics and Hydroponics: The organization was a pioneer in the use of aquaponics, a sustainable food production system that combines aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (cultivating plants in water) in a symbiotic environment. This method allowed for the efficient use of space and resources, making it ideal for urban settings.

• Soil Rehabilitation: Through composting and vermicomposting, Growing Power produced rich, organic soil. This not only improved the productivity of its urban farms but also demonstrated the value of organic waste as a resource.

• Education and Training: Growing Power offered a range of educational programs and workshops for people of all ages, focusing on sustainable agriculture practices, food justice, and community development. These programs aimed to empower individuals and communities to build sustainable food systems of their own.

Challenges and Closure

Despite its successes, Growing Power faced financial and operational challenges that ultimately led to its closure in 2017. The organization struggled with the financial sustainability of its programs and the maintenance of its urban farming facilities. The closure of Growing Power marked the end of an era in the urban agriculture movement, but its legacy continues to inspire and inform community food initiatives around the world.

Legacy

The work of Growing Power and Will Allen has had a lasting impact on the urban agriculture movement. Allen's approach to community engagement, sustainable farming, and food system development has been widely recognized and emulated. The principles and practices developed by Growing Power continue to influence urban farming initiatives, policy discussions, and community food security strategies globally.