The ELEVATE project is designed to work with young people aged between 18-25 who are at risk of or in recovery from drug and alcohol use. The Project Co-ordinator Sharon O’Connell along with her team has brought what was once an empty space in the Greenfield Allotment site to life.
The initial phase of the project focused on setting up the site, constructing the polytunnel, laying the ground, completing a first season of growth and building the essential infrastructure such as a composting facility and a shed. Once the initial phase was completed and the structures were in place-the next step was to engage young people in hands-on work at the site, growing food organically and learning to care for the earth.
These youth were guided by a tutor Anthony Burchhill and the wider allotment community, the young people not only cultivated the land, they developed technical skills to build a picnic area and fencing using recycled materials and eco friendly paints. But alongside the physical work they built meaningful connections with the tutor through talk therapy fostering personal growth and a space where the young people could connect with both nature and themselves was created. This type of approach has proven effective with the young people involved reporting improved sleep, feeling better overall, reduced anxiety and a greater sense of relaxation. Many also found they were able to talk more freely which helped ease stressors and foster emotional wellbeing.
This allotment project has successfully met YMCA Ireland’s impact pillars aligning with its goals of fostering personal development through skill building and hands on learning, prompting healthy living with a focus on organic food cultivation and mental well being and fostering community engagement by bringing young people and local members together in a shared and meaningful way.
The project has also aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) including;
Goal 3: Good Health and Well Being- by reducing stress, improving sleep and fostering mental health through talk therapy and physical activity.
Goal 4: Quality Education- through skill building opportunities like construction, organic gardening and environmental care.
Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities – by creating a shared community space that promotes inclusivity and collaboration.
Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production- through the use of recycled materials and eco friendly practices.
Goal15: Life on Land – By growing food organically and caring for the earth.
Also featured this year are two standout events that recognised its success. First a celebratory BBQ, providing a platform for the young people to showcase their achievements and celebrate their hard work with staff from other services across the City -Dermot Ryan and Helena O’Sullivan DEASP. Kate Gibney The Southern Regional Drug and Alcohol Forum and Catriona McNaeidhe of the Cork ETB. Second the allotment itself gained recognition when the group won 4th Prize at the Cork Agricultural Show an incredible achievement especially since they were the only youth group competing and they were highly commended.
This project is an undeniable success showcasing the power of youth engagement, skill development and community collaboration thanks to the project co-ordinator’s vision and leadership. A special thanks to Gordon Kingsley HSE, Atkins Gardenworld, MD O’ Shea and the DEASP who all donated to make this project a reality.
Find out more about our Youth Vocation work.
