Allegheny Mountain Institute began in 2011 as the Allegheny Mountain School with a mission to cultivate healthy communities through food and education. Its founder, Laurie Berman, recognized the need to reinvigorate Appalachian communities to return to their agrarian roots—learning to grow their own food again and taking charge of their personal health and that of their communities. In 2014, AMS officially renamed itself Allegheny Mountain Institute. The organization’s vision remains the same as it was a decade ago—to train the trainer. In other words, to teach others to experience the joys and health benefits of growing one’s own food and teach others to do the same.
Allegheny Mountain Institute hosts classes and workshops in the communities of Highland County, Rockbridge County, Augusta County, Staunton and Waynesboro. Approximately 24,000 pounds of vegetables support community health through a variety of initiatives such as Crop to Community and Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. AMI’s Executive Director Kim Davidson works with the board, volunteers and the Fellowship Program to teach others to experience the joys and health benefits of growing one’s own food. The Fellowship Program is central to AMI’s success. Eight to nine fellows are recruited for an 18-month immersive, educational experience. During the first six months, fellows receive hands-on, farm-based training using bio-intensive, organic and regenerative practices. In the next year, the training is put into action by helping grow the local food system, supporting sustainable farming, increasing access to nutritional food and promoting health through educational programming. These initiatives have led to AMI’s success in bringing together diverse individuals in the community and promoting equity in its programs. The Institute was nominated by The Augusta Garden Club.
Jennifer Erving has worked at the Norfolk Botanical Garden for more than 15 years as-a-field educator at the garden’s WOW garden—the World of Wonders Children’s Garden. She has designed splash fountains, discovery stations, scavenger hunts, walking tours and a “dirt factory”—all with the goal of encouraging children to enjoy the outdoors, learn the benefits of a connection to nature, and introduce them to the magic of gardening.
With the limitations imposed by the pandemic, Ms. Erving developed Nature Quest, an interactive application which provides immersive garden experiences. Launched in July, Quest includes photo scavenger hunts, games and educational activities. “Victory Gardens on Discovery Peak” was her first NBG Quest, and it invites teams or individuals to engage with edible plants in the WOW garden.
Ms. Erving has served as an inspiration to children—and their parents. By developing creative and innovative programming and garden design, she has encouraged them to be curious about the environment, learn about other species that share our planet, where food comes from and the rewards of being outside. From the beginning of her professional career with the YMCA to her innovative programs at Norfolk Botanical Garden, Ms. Erving has shared her passions with thousands of children and families.
In addition to the GCV’s Conservation Educator Award, Ms. Erving was also recognized by The Garden Club of America. She is a 2021 recipient of their Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award, which recognizes individuals around the country who work with youth under the age of 16 to inspire their “appreciation of the beauty and fragility of our planet.” Ms. Erving was nominated by the The Garden Club of Norfolk.
