"Though I do not believe that a plant will spring up where no seed has been, I have great
faith in a seed. Convince me you have a
seed there, and I am
prepared to expect wonders."
— Henry David Thoreau
Insight Garden Program
In collaboration with San Quentin State Prison, the Insight Garden Program (IGP) provides rehabilitation to self-selected prisoners through the process of organic gardening. Through the act of caring for plants, the qualities of responsibility, discipline and mindfulness transfer to the interpersonal realm — by growing plants, people also "grow."
The IGP's classes include classroom course curricula and hands-on experience in a 1,200-square foot organic flower garden in San Quentin's medium-security prison yard. In our classes, men learn about landscaping and gardening, including (but not limited to): planning, budgeting and design, irrigation, soil amendment, seasonal garden maintenance, and plant ID and propagation.
By working in an organic flower garden, men also become ecologically literate — developing an awareness of their connection to and impact on the world around them. They learn about the interconnectedness of human and ecological systems and how the principles of the natural world, such as diversity and cooperation, transfer to all levels of human systems.
This approach of "re-connection through nature" is integrated with opportunities for personal development. Because nature cultivates awareness, men learn to respond rather than react — and become productive members of society when they leave prison.
Bridging the Divides that Surround Us
Though some men may leave prison as "changed people," continuing to cultivate their interpersonal skills, finding meaningful living-wage jobs and reintegrating into society are challenges they face from the moment they step beyond the prison walls.
In 2010, IGP intends to expand the program outside the prison by establishing relevant resources to support former prisoners, so they can find landscaping, gardening, or "green" jobs. Being able to provide these resources would help complete the circle of healing needed to create a safer, more humane society.
How to Help
The IGP is supported by the affectionate generosity of its donors for services, supplies and general operation and for plans to provide post-release services. If you would like to help our work continue, we gratefully accept all contributions, monthly or annual pledges, bequests or other gifts.
For contributions to be tax-deductible, please make them through the Agape Foundation, our fiscal sponsor. As such, their name, not ours, will appear on your bank or credit card statement.
For more information contact: Beth Waitkus, Program Director at 415-730-6301 or click here to make contribution. Tax-deductible contributions also may be made out to the Agape Foundation (with "Insight Garden Program" noted on the check) and mailed to Insight Garden Program at San Quentin, P.O. Box 441, San Quentin, CA 94964-0441.
Tending the Echinacea.
"You [all have been] a blessing in so many lives and I want to thank you for that... I
have so much respect for our planet which is
our home... now I
know that I can make a difference for myself, others, and future generations. Thank you for
helping me recover my freedom and my love for
this world and other
people."
— Ronnell, former prisoner
Downloads
- Thesis Abstract (PDF)
Photo by John Kokoska.