Comer Crops: Youth Raised & Harvested

A one-of-a-kind youth-led farm on Chicago's South Side

The Comer Crops internship program provides young adults ages 18–24 with an immersive experience in community food systems, food sovereignty work, and other fields related to urban agriculture while earning more than minimum wage. The program's mission is to provide a green space for youth leadership; to promote environmental literacy; and to foster agency within the local food system in order to further sustainability and resilience in their communities. Driven by the values of food agency and accessibility, education, sustainability, and community connection, Comer Crops interns forge a deeper connection to the earth and develop greater agency to advocate for their local environments. Additionally, many Comer Crops members pursue post-secondary, STEAM opportunities, including offsite internships and job placements through GCYC and its program partners. In the Comer Crops program, interns have the opportunity to build upon their experience and practice valuable and marketable leadership skills and responsibilities for their personal post-secondary pursuits.