About Us
We are a community garden program aiming to make fresh produce accessible to all families. We are building relationships and cultivating hope.
Growing Garden Cities, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded in August 2021. We serve Tom Green County in multiple locations, and growing, with a goal of expanding into surrounding counties.
The meaning behind our name is centered around building a safe “garden city” for our neighbors to come together and share in the positive physical, social, mental, and spiritual aspects of gardening. We are able to provide instruction as well as fresh produce free of charge to those in need while bringing awareness to healthier lifestyle choices and overall well-being. We partner with area businesses, schools, churches, nonprofits, and neighbors to identify areas and utilize resources.
Board of Directors
Julie Holt
Founder, President
“I founded Growing Garden Cities after years in investment planning and recognizing a need during my most recent service at Concho Valley Food Bank. I was brought to tears time and time again seeing so many living without hope. I wanted to know their story, I wanted to love on them the way we are loved so after months of praying for direction, I finally said ‘yes’. I am blessed with new friends, support, and pure joy that can only come from serving the Lord.”
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40
Tara Rogers
Secretary
“I am an educator in San Angelo ISD. I love working with children and seeing them grow and mature in their abilities to learn. My passion for Growing Garden Cities is in the ministry of building relationships and providing for those in need.”
“I can do all things in Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
Wade Day
Director
“I work for the United States Department of Agriculture. Born and raised in San Angelo, this community is special to me and where I am raising my family. Growing Garden Cities is something I became involved with for several reasons. Firstly, gardening is something I very much enjoy, it is a release from the daily grind. I grew up gardening and enjoy sharing the produce and the knowledge of it. I am passionate about this organization’s purpose. Through this we are able to share Christ and show others His love, a calling for all believers.”
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” John 15:1
Director
Donna Hooper
“I have lived in San Angelo since 2004. I have worked in many fields and my passion is working with and for others. I was introduced to Growing Garden Cities at a very low point in my life and to see the work that God has done through the garden is so wonderful.”
“I can do all things in Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
Debbie Young
Treasurer
“I am currently the Office Administrator at First Christian Church. Previously, an insurance agent with my own agency. My passion is helping others and I enjoy serving those who need a helping hand. I am an active member of First Christian Church where I serve as an elder, a member of the Parish Council, and Trustee. I am a member of the San Angelo Kiwanis Club and serving as their President for the 2022-2023 year. I find a great joy in working with the Texas Ramps Project and working alongside Julie in Growing Garden Cities. I’m looking forward to this new opportunity to serve.”
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13: 34-35
Mission Statement
Growing Garden Cities mission is to build relationships and provide nutritious options by planting gardens in underserved communities. We provide fresh produce to those in need at no charge by encouraging our neighbors to responsibly work alongside garden cities’ volunteers contributing to the sustainability of each location.
Vision Statement
Cultivating hope while providing garden education in Tom Green County and surrounding counties in the Concho Valley to address food insecurity and promote healthy lifestyle choices.