The Campus Garden’s mission statement is “serve, educate, grow”. We provide opportunities for students, faculty, and community members to volunteer their time and help fight food insecurity at a local level. We grow organic produce that is donated to the Bear Pantry, which is then available to all people affiliated with Missouri State.

We also hold events and workshops to educate people on urban gardening as well as how to get in touch with nature. Some examples are our Yoga at the Garden sessions and bouquet-making and seed-starting workshops.

Every summer my family always plants a garden with tons of tomatoes, peppers, sweetcorn, and more. So, volunteering at the campus garden is a fun way to remember those summer days picking tomatoes and shucking ears of corn with my family.

Volunteering at the campus garden is a great way to get involved in and give back to your community and learn more about growing your own organic produce. People who are interested in volunteering should reach out to the Campus Garden via email at campusgarden@missouristate.edu or follow us on Instagram @MSUCampusGarden. 

(Chase Kroner is a sophomore majoring in history education. He is the Family Assistant for 2022-23 and an Ursa Major. He has been a SOAR Leader and is a member of the Horticulture Club.)