Pictured in photo (L-R) 2023 Hydroponics Workshop graduates Christopher Pizzino, Richard Santiago

The Veterans Center at Lakeland Community College will host free hydroponic farming workshops this fall, funded by a grant from the Cleveland Foundation Lake-Geauga Fund.

The workshops, starting Aug. 22, 2024, aim to promote personal growth and wellness through agriculture. Topics include hydroponic production systems, agriculture education, business planning and local produce sales. Participants are welcome to attend any or all sessions of the weekly workshop series, which runs through Dec. 12. The flexible format allows individuals to join classes that best fit their schedules and interests, without the requirement to attend every session.

Classes will be held Thursdays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. in Lakeland's greenhouse classroom, H-Building, Room H-331. Participants who complete the curriculum receive a certificate from Central State University's Fast Track Farming program, which can aid in securing agricultural loans or grants.

"We're fortunate to have this program free and available to everybody," said S. Rhonda Osagie-Erese, veterans center manager at Lakeland. "I urge anybody interested to contact me to take advantage of the opportunity."

Partners include the Cleveland Foundation, Central State University, OD Greens, Soldiers to Sawyers Veterans Mission, Student Veterans of America and USDA.

While hydroponics farming workshops are open to everyone, class sizes are limited. Contact S. Rhonda Osagie-Erese for more information at LCCveterans@lakelandcc.edu.

By: Adam Continenza, Mrktg and Commun Specialist