Youth participating in West Virginia State University (WVSU) Extension Service’s SCRATCH Project will “Run the Ramp” Saturday, April 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wild Ramp farmers market in Huntington.
“We’re so excited for our kids to be able to learn firsthand about market management,” said Melissa Stewart, assistant program director for WVSU Extension Service. “While the crops they’ve grown and harvested have been for sale in the market on multiple occasions, this is the first time they’ll be able to directly participate in the delivery of their goods to the consumer.”
Participants will learn what it takes to run a successful farmers market. Duties may include greeting customers, restocking shelves, bagging groceries, cleaning and organizing products and storage areas.
SCRATCH, which stands for Sustainable Community Revitalization in Appalachia Through Children’s Hands, provides hands-on opportunities for at-risk youth to learn sustainable gardening that combines science, technology, engineering and mathematics with entrepreneurship. Kids participate in all aspects of garden production and management, with harvested crops being sold to local markets and restaurants. Proceeds are used to sustain the program.
The Wild Ramp, a non-profit local foods market, opened its doors in 2012 as a space for local food producers and artisans to sell their products. The “Run the Ramp” program provides a concentrated volunteer experience to groups interested in helping operate the Wild Ramp on an appointed date.
The Wild Ramp is located at 555 14th St. W. in Huntington.
