About Our Youth Programs
At Dream of Wild Health, we believe that children are sacred, wakan. Our youth programs are a way to bring families together around healthy food, nature, and traditions.
Each summer, we offer programs for Native American youth from the Twin Cities.
The youth start each morning in circle with staff, learning to smudge and pray with tobacco. The youth learn to plant, grow, harvest and cook fresh, organic vegetables. The youth also work with our Native Chef, learning to make healthy lunches.
Youth from Garden Warriors can stay with Dream of Wild Health year-round through our Youth Leaders program.
These youth can become eligible to receive our youth scholarships by showing sustained dedication to the Dream of Wild Health programs and to their school work.
Native Youth Education & Leadership Program
Our youth programs provide culturally-based lessons for youth, ages 8-18. The farm provides a safe and creative learning environment where they learn about regenerative organic gardening, healthy foods preparation and nutrition, and Native cultural traditions while gaining employment and leadership skills. Our Youth Leaders program is a year-round leadership development program where youth lead advocacy, outreach, and training through an Indigenous lens.
Cora’s Kids
Cora’s Kids is a four day program for Native kids ages 8-12 out at the Dream of Wild Health farm in Hugo, MN. We will be learning about growing and eating healthy and tasty food, culture, and language along with traditional crafts and games.
Garden Warriors
Our three-week sessions covering gardening, nutrition, physical activity, and Native culture and language for teens ages 13-18. Youth have the opportunity to work in the kitchen cooking healthy and indigenous foods as well as the opportunity to work at our Farmer’s Market. Participants are paid a stipend for their work experience.
Youth Leaders
Garden Warriors who demonstrate maturity and commitment to succeeding in school are invited to join our year-round Youth Leaders group. It is an opportunity for Native youth to take leadership in the community around nutrition, health and food justice issues. We work together to become advocates and examples for our community and reconnect to a traditional relationship with our food.