GARDENING 101

Gardening 101 at the ARK gives families a hands-on opportunity to learn how to grow fresh, healthy food at home. Participants will explore the basics of starting a garden, preparing soil, planting seeds, caring for growing plants, managing pests, harvesting produce, and making the most of what they grow. Whether you have a large backyard, a small garden space, or just a few containers, these practical lessons are designed to help families gain confidence and discover the joy of growing their own food. At the ARK, learning happens through hands-on experiences, connecting families with nature, one another, and the food they eat.

Backyard Chicken Keeping at the ARK gives families the opportunity to learn the basics of raising chickens and producing fresh eggs at home. Participants will discover what chickens need to stay healthy and safe, including proper housing, food, water, predator protection, seasonal care, and parasite prevention. Families will also learn how to collect, clean, store, and use fresh eggs in everyday meals. Through hands-on experiences with the ARK’s chickens, these classes help families build practical skills, become more self-sufficient, and experience the rewards of caring for animals.

Freezer Meal Prep Classes give families practical, hands-on skills for preparing affordable, nutritious meals that can be made ahead and enjoyed later. Held in partnership with The ConneXion Church, these classes take place at the church, Participants learn simple meal-planning, preparation, packaging, labeling, and freezer-storage techniques while preparing meals to take home. These classes are designed to help families save time and money, reduce food waste, and make busy weeknight meals easier. Participants leave with both ready-to-cook meals and practical skills they can use at home.