E.M.B.A.R.C. Youth Farm
The vision for the $2.3 million 58-acre DeKalb County E.M.B.A.R.C. Community Youth Farm was birthed from the notion that when you engage, educate and empower youth with life skills and opportunities to grow — they thrive. As we look for ways to constructively engage our youth, we address the problem of water boys and the need for structured youth engagement. Created by Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, E.M.B.A.R.C. takes a holistic approach to youth development through urban farming and entrepreneurship. Life skills and leadership are at the core of the youth farm. All programs, events and the country store follow the Junior Achievement model so program participants will be compensated for their time as participants on the farm.
The mission of the E.M.B.A.R.C. Community Youth Farm is to create a community hub for youth to grow food, engage in entrepreneurship and develop lasting skills that enhance their quality of life and the health of DeKalb County. E.M.B.A.R.C. will be a gamechanger for DeKalb youth and farmers featuring a state-of-the-art greenhouse, hydroponic stations, raised farm beds, compost station, ziplining, kayaking, a hen house and bee station. At the center of the youth farm is a country store that will be operated by youth, along with training on entrepreneurship, leadership, and soft skills.