Search Results
297 results found with an empty search
- Casey Phillips wins Capital Area United Way's Brotherhood Sisterhood Award
The Brotherhood Sisterhood banquet takes place annually and honors local community members who are recognized for actively serving the community, leading and inspiring others, breaking personal barriers, and leading exemplary lives, all toward the goal of equality and togetherness. Since 1963, The Brotherhood Sisterhood Awards have annually recognized two outstanding individuals in the greater Baton Rouge community who have devoted their professional, philanthropic, and volunteer capacities to humanitarian service, thereby advancing the mission of fostering unity across racial, socioeconomic, ethnic, and religious lines. The honorees of the Brotherhood Sisterhood Award have worked tirelessly to break down the barriers that divide the community and impede its citizens from coexisting and collaborating harmoniously. Click here to learn more about CAUW and Living United. On April 16th, Walls Project Executive Director, Casey Phillips received the great honor of receiving one of the two Brotherhood Sisterhood Awards. Since starting The Walls Project in 2012 Phillips has dedicated the past decade to growing the impact of the organization along with dedicated volunteers and team members. To date The Walls has created over $4M in economic opportunity for grassroots creatives, reactivated miles of urban blight, trained over 3500 youth and adults in tech, and distributed tens of thousands of pounds of fresh produce. Before co-founding The Walls, Phillips launched The Force Agency in Los Angeles in 2006 specializing in branding and concert booking and promotion across California, Colorado, and New Orleans and Gulf South. Currently a founding member of the OneRouge Coalitions with MetroMorphosis, and former steering committee member for the Kellogg Foundation Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation, My Brothers Keeper BR, and facilitator for Dialogue on Race Louisiana.
- OneRouge Coalitions - March 2024 Updates
In the month of March, OneRouge hosted its monthly virtual check-in meetings to review the progress made in the three launched coalitions, Education to Career (E2C), Capital Area Food Equity (CAFÉ), and Transportation & Mobility, as well as the OneRouge Leadership Council. E2C, CAFÉ, and the Leadership Council unveiled their new Coalition Workgroup landing pages, a consistent location to review coalition progress, shared information, and track the action steps, milestones, and next steps to keep the workgroup's momentum moving. To access the site, please opt into the OneRouge Coalition of your choice.
- Agroforestry Education at Baton Roots
At Baton Roots Community Farm, we believe in the power of education to inspire positive change. As stewards of the land, we're passionate about sharing our knowledge and nurturing a deeper connection between people and the environment. This past month, Baton Roots hosted students from a homeschool group as well as multiple classes from Southern University’s Agricultural College to provide boots-in-the-dirt opportunities to learn about agroforestry. What is Agroforestry? Agroforestry is a sustainable land management practice that integrates trees, shrubs, and crops to create a diverse and productive agricultural system. By mimicking the structure and function of natural forests, agroforestry offers a host of environmental, economic, and social benefits, including improved soil health, enhanced biodiversity, and increased resilience to climate change. Field Trip Highlights: Baton Roots has partnered with local tree experts at Baton Rouge Green to plant and maintain orchards at the community farm, as well as expand urban agroforestry throughout Baton Rouge. Baton Roots and Baton Rouge Green staff worked together to teach students of all ages about planting, harvesting, pruning, and more! Through our agroforestry education, we aim to: Raise awareness about the importance of agroforestry as a sustainable farming practice and important land management practice in urban spaces. Inspire individuals and communities to embrace agroforestry principles and incorporate them into their own land management efforts. Foster a sense of stewardship and appreciation for the natural world among learners of all ages. If you are interested in bringing a group to Baton Roots Community farm, reach out to us at batonroots@thewallsproject.org.
- April at Baton Roots: Figs, Fiber Arts and More!
Join Baton Roots at one of the upcoming events at the farm: April 6th, 2024 10 am- 12 pm: Sow Good Saturday April 20th, 2024 9 am - 12 pm: Earth Day at Baton Roots Sow Good Saturday (April 6th) On Saturday, April 6th, Baton Roots Community Farm will host a morning of movement, local food, and agroforestry education! This month’s Sow Good Saturday will feature Justin Duncan of the National Center for Appropriate Technologies will join us for a demonstration on caring for fig trees. Afterwards, Zelena of 842 Yoga will lead an invigorating yoga session, and Staci Mitchell working with the American Heart Association will be sharing farm-fresh food and recipes that feature radishes, turnips, and kale. Attendees can take home farm fresh produce and herb seedlings, and one lucky raffle winner will take home a fig tree courtesy of Baton Roots! Sow Good Saturday takes place on the first Saturday of every month from 10 am-12 pm at the Baton Roots Community Farm at BREC’s Howell Park (5509 Winbourne Avenue). The event includes a free all-levels yoga class, cooking demonstration and farm-fresh tastings provided by the American Heart Association, and agroforestry education provided by Baton Roots staff and partners. Sow Good Saturday is intended to nourish whole people and whole communities. Click here to register for future events and stay up-to-date on all things Baton Roots! Earth Day (April 20th) Join us at Baton Roots Community Farm this Earth Day for a celebration that promises to inspire, educate, and unite our community in the spirit of sustainability. Together, we can cultivate a brighter future for generations to come. Mark your calendars and be a part of this transformative event. Together, let's make every day Earth Day! Event Details: Date: April 20th, 2024 Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Location: Baton Roots Community Farm, BREC’s Howell Park [5509 Winbourne Avenue] Admission: Free for all ages Activities: Farm Tours: Get a firsthand look at how our urban farm operates. Learn about our sustainable farming practices and composting techniques. Hands-On Workshops: Engage in interactive workshops led by our knowledgeable team members. This Earth Day, we are lucky enough to be joined by eco-conscious artists who will teach workshops on harvesting and building pottery with wild clay as well as upcycling fiber totes. Farm-to-Table Food: Savor delicious, farm-fresh food prepared by our partners at the American Heart Association and Village Cofe. Indulge in seasonal delights sourced directly from Baton Roots. Community Service: Join The Walls Project as we tend to the farm and our neighborhood leaving a brighter, greener space! Why Attend? Educational Opportunities: Learn practical tips and strategies for living a more sustainable lifestyle. Community Engagement: Connect with fellow eco-conscious individuals and organizations passionate about environmental conservation. Support Local Agriculture: Discover the benefits of supporting urban farming initiatives and local food systems. Celebrate Earth Day: Honor the significance of Earth Day by taking meaningful action to protect and preserve our planet. For more information and updates, register here or follow us on social media @batonroots. We look forward to seeing you there!
- JOLTcon Spring Event Sets Stage for Next-Gen Innovators
Southern University witnessed an electrifying start to its spring semester with the kickoff of JOLTcon, a two-part conference series aimed at nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among the youth. On Saturday, March 23rd, the campus was abuzz with excitement as teens aged 12-18 gathered to embark on a journey of innovation, creativity, and business development. This semester's theme, "Creating NextGen Innovators," resonated through the corridors as eager participants delved into workshops and sessions focused on harnessing technology, exploring the realms of creative arts, and honing essential business skills. The first event offered a comprehensive platform for teens to delve into the intricacies of entrepreneurship under the guidance of seasoned professionals and mentors. One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for young minds to delve into the realm of business development, preparing them to pitch their innovative concepts at the upcoming competition event slated for April 27th. With a $500 cash prize up for grabs, the stakes were high, fueling the enthusiasm of the participants to craft compelling business proposals and showcase their entrepreneurial prowess. "I came today because I have a new business, and I want to see it grow. This event had many great workshops that helped me see the full vision," remarked one of the participants, highlighting the essence of JOLTcon in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among today's youth. The event witnessed an impressive turnout, with 77 teens actively participating in workshops aimed at instilling essential skills such as crafting persuasive business pitches, transforming ideas into viable business plans, and navigating the intricacies of branding and marketing. Guest instructors, including renowned names like Orhan McMillan, Blaine Smith of LSBDC, and Kirsten Roberson of KRO Management, lent their expertise, enriching the learning experience for the attendees. A testament to the community's commitment to nurturing young talent, JOLTcon garnered support from esteemed sponsors including Louisiana Healthcare Connections, NexusLA, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, Sparkhound, Baton Rouge Alliance for Students, New Schools for Baton Rouge, Kuvare and Southern University, along with generous contributions from individuals passionate about fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. With the groundwork laid at the inaugural event, anticipation brews for the upcoming competition event in April, where budding entrepreneurs will showcase their ingenuity and vie for the coveted cash prize. As JOLTcon continues to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators, it serves as a beacon of hope for a future brimming with creativity, resilience, and limitless possibilities.
- Youth Conference JOLTcon Sparks Innovation and Fuels Small Business Dreams in Baton Rouge
BATON ROUGE, LA – JOLTcon, the innovative youth conference by The Futures Fund and The Walls Project, is set to empower and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Baton Rouge with its two-part series on March 23rd and April 27th at Southern University. This free event, designed for high school students, brings together renowned guest instructors including the Louisiana Small Business Development Center of Southern University, Orhan McMillan, and Kirsten Roberson of KRO Management LLC. Empowering Youth in Small Business Development: JOLTcon is not just a conference; it's a catalyst for small business dreams. With a mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, this powerful event equips high school students with the skills and knowledge crucial for small business development. Participants will dive deep into the realms of technology, creative arts, and business planning to emerge as the next wave of successful entrepreneurs. Event Highlights: Dates: March 23rd and April 27th Location: T.T. Allain, Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA Theme: Creating NextGen Innovators Free Lunch: Included for Registered Participants Competition: April 27th - Chance to win $500 cash prize for the best business pitch Special Opportunity: Non-competitors on April 27th can work with KRO Management to register their LLC from start to finish. March 23rd Event: Small Business Skill Development The March 23rd event is a gateway to small business development. Teens in grades 9-12 will delve into the intricacies of developing and pitching their business concepts. Through workshops led by industry experts, participants will gain valuable insights into transforming ideas into viable businesses. This foundational knowledge is essential for those looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey. April 27th Competition: Fostering Entrepreneurs The competition on April 27th is not just about winning a cash prize; it's about fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship. Participants will showcase their small business ideas, honed through the skills acquired in the previous event, to a panel of esteemed judges. This platform is a launchpad for young entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality. JOLTcon: Shaping Tomorrow's Business Leaders JOLTcon takes pride in its commitment to shaping tomorrow's business leaders. By providing a comprehensive curriculum that covers not only creative arts and technology but also the essentials of business planning, taxation, insurance, and legal aspects, JOLTcon stands as a formidable force in youth small business development. Why JOLTcon Matters for Youth Entrepreneurship: Hands-On Training: Practical skills that go beyond theory, preparing teens for real-world challenges. Mentorship: Access to industry experts who have successfully navigated the entrepreneurial landscape. Networking: Opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, forming valuable partnerships. Idea Investment: The chance to win a $500 cash prize to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey. JOLTcon isn't just an event; it's a movement, jolting the spark of innovation and entrepreneurship in the hearts of the youth. For more information or to register for JOLTcon, visit thewallsproject.org/joltcon or contact Helena Williams at helena@thewallsproject.org. JOLTcon Spring 2024 is made possible through the support of NexusLA, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, Southern University and generous donations from individuals.
- Tree Giveaway, Eco Art and more at March’s Sow Good Saturday
On Saturday, March 2nd, Baton Roots Community Farm hosted a morning of movement, local food, and agroforestry education! Baton Roots Mobile Farm Manager Jack Curry and Senior Program Coordinator Mitchell Provensal led a demonstration on how to use natural low-cost fertilizers to prepare spring garden beds! Afterward, community members and staff worked together to try these methods out in the Harmony Garden raised beds at Baton Roots Community Farm. You can check out the full demonstration on the Baton Roots Youtube Channel. Zelena of 842 Yoga led an invigorating yoga session where participants focused on grounding and connecting with themselves. Zelena also leads classes with BREC and other locations around Baton Rouge. Follow them on instagram @842yoga to stay up to date with all their activities! Staci Mitchell and Yvette Palmer of the American Heart Association led a cooking demonstration for participants. They prepared a chicken and vegetable soup as well as a fresh salad, both featuring carrots harvested at Baton Roots Community Farm. Staci and Yvette discussed the value of eating the rainbow in having a nutrient-dense diet! While every Sow Good Saturday involves an incredible combination of activities that feed bodies, minds, and community, March was particularly special! Our partners at Baton Rouge Green supported a tree giveaway. Participants took home 2-3 trees from the following species: Winged Elm, White Oak, Black Gum, American Hornbeam, Green Ash, and American Holly. Finally, The Walls Project’s champion of all things placemaking and public art, Morgan Udoh, worked with artist Skye Eerie to lead an eco art workshop and art build. Attendees assisted with the building of an art installation/sign for the farm using upcycled and reclaimed materials. Sow Good Saturday takes place on the first Saturday of every month from 10am-12pm at the Baton Roots Community Farm at BREC’s Howell Park (5509 Winbourne Avenue). The event includes a free all-levels yoga class, cooking demonstration and farm-fresh tastings provided by the American Heart Association, and agroforestry education provided by Baton Roots staff and partners. Sow Good Saturday is intended to nourish whole people and whole communities. Click here to register for future events and stay up-to-date on all things Baton Roots!
- Baton Roots farmers attend the Louisiana Farmers Climate Convening
In late January, farmers from across the state gathered at Chicot Lake State Park to discuss the impacts of climate change on agriculture in Louisiana. The Louisiana Farmers Climate Convening was hosted by the Louisiana Small-Scale Agriculture Coalition, a group of producer-focused food system organizations from around the state. Their purpose is to organize a network where growers can support each other through climate crises, an urgent task in a year in which Louisiana experienced record-breaking drought and heat, wildfires, saltwater intrusion, and flooding. The convening brought together agriculture professionals from around the state to discuss impacts of the extreme weather patterns on farming. There was a range of speakers and breakouts for participants to learn how people are adapting to these changes and to share what their needs are on their particular farm. "Leaving this event I felt more energized and connected to the Louisiana small farming community. I believe this event will strengthen our network to support existing farmers and bring in new ones," stated Baton Roots Senior Program Coordinator Mitchell Provensal, who assisted in facilitating the LGBTQIA and Urban Ag breakout groups at the convening. According to Serve Louisiana Corps Member Sarah Cross, “The Louisiana farmers climate convention was a great experience as a beginner farmer. I was able to learn about a variety of topics such as community organizing and traditional ecological knowledge and regenerative agriculture (Intertribal Agriculture Council). The climate convening was a great opportunity to meet with other farmers in Louisiana and share information.” Sarah has spent the past seven months working with Baton Roots Community Farm, building on a previous year of service with the LSU Food Pantry. Learn more about the Louisiana Small Scale Agriculture Coalition here.
- Reactivate BR: Earth Day at Baton Roots
Mark your calendars for a day of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and a whole lot of fun! Join The Walls Project's Baton Roots and Public Art programs on April 20, 2024, for an unforgettable Earth Day celebration at the scenic Baton Roots Community Farm, nestled within the beauty of BREC's Howell Park. The farm, located at 5509 Winbourne Ave., Baton Rouge, is the perfect setting for a day filled with positive vibes and impactful activities. Why Should You Join? This Earth Day, we invite you to be a part of something meaningful – a celebration of our planet, community, and sustainable living. Whether you're a seasoned eco-warrior or just dipping your toes into the world of environmental consciousness, there's something for everyone at Baton Roots Community Farm. What's in Store for You? Neighborhood Blight Cleanup: Roll up your sleeves and make a tangible impact on our community. Join us in cleaning up the neighborhood, and contributing to a cleaner and greener Baton Rouge. Farm Art Painting: Unleash your creativity by participating in our farm art painting activity. Add a splash of color to the farm while expressing yourself through art. Handbuilding with Harvested Clay: Explore the world of pottery and hand-building using clay harvested locally. Create unique, nature-inspired pieces under the open sky. Woodchip Spreading at the Farm: Help us maintain the farm's vitality by spreading woodchips. It's a great way to connect with nature while contributing to the farm's sustainability. Tote Making from Reclaimed Fabric: Dive into the world of upcycling by crafting your own tote bag from reclaimed fabric. Showcase your commitment to reducing waste in a stylish and practical way. All-Levels Yoga: Find your zen amidst the greenery with our all-levels yoga session. Connect with the Earth and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Planting Spring Crops: Get your hands dirty and experience the joy of planting spring crops. Learn about sustainable farming practices and contribute to the growth of our community farm. Stay for an Hour or the Whole Morning! Feel free to customize your Earth Day experience – whether you have just an hour to spare or want to immerse yourself in the festivities for the entire morning. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. How to Participate: Registration: Secure your spot by registering on our website. Volunteer Opportunities: Sign up for specific activities that resonate with you. Bring Friends and Family: Earth Day is best celebrated with loved ones. Spread the word and make it a day of shared experiences. Become a Supporter: Our events are made possible through the generous support of individuals and organizations. Big or small contributions make a world of difference. Consider becoming a sponsor for this or any of our upcoming Reactivate BR events here. Read more by downloading the Sponsorship booklet. Let's Grow Together! This Earth Day, let's come together as a community to sow the seeds of positive change. Join us at Baton Roots Community Farm for a day of action, learning, and connection. Together, we can cultivate a brighter, greener future for Baton Rouge. Don't miss out on this fantastic Earth Day celebration – see you there! Our Reactivate BR: Earth Day event is made possible by the support of funders like Keep Louisiana Beautiful.
- Finance Report: The Walls Project - Calendar Year 2023 Overview
2023 marked a year of remarkable success for The Walls Project as we continued to expand our efforts to meet the evolving needs of our communities amidst the ongoing post-pandemic recovery. Throughout the calendar year, we achieved a total revenue of $1,519,000 and incurred expenses amounting to $1,533,000 resulting in a small financial loss. Our diverse range of programs encompassed initiatives such as Baton Roots, (UrbanAg and Community Gardens), Futures Fund (Youth and Adult Workforce Development), OneRouge Coalition (Coalition addressing the nine drivers of poverty), Mural Arts (Murals, public installations, and place-making), and Community-Based Events (such as MLK Festivals of Service and Juneteenth Celebrations), each contributing significantly to our mission of community empowerment and transformation. Revenue Mix: The Walls Project relies primarily on foundation and government grants (58%), in-kind donations (15%), service contracts (15%), and corporate sponsorships or contributions (7%) to sustain our operations. These funding sources require rigorous efforts in application writing, project execution, and reporting. Notably, individual donations constituted only 5% of our revenue in 2023, underscoring the importance of diversifying our funding streams. Donations: In 2023, individual donations to The Walls Project amounted to 5% of our total revenue. This included three major donations exceeding $5,000, totaling $29,743, as well as board donations totaling less than $7,000. Additionally, we received over $42,000 from individual donors, highlighting the generous support from our community. Our Walls Insider monthly giving campaign attracted 14 individuals who contributed $8,600, demonstrating the impact of sustained donor engagement. Expenses by Program: Our expenses in 2023 align closely with industry standards for non-profit organizations. Administration and Fundraising accounted for 19% of our annual expenses, while direct program activities constituted 81%. Baton Roots emerged as our largest program, representing 34% of annual expenses, followed by Public Art (18%), Futures Fund (14%), One Rouge Coalition (11%), and community-based Events (4%). Projects and Programs: Throughout 2023, The Walls Project secured a total of 64 grants and projects, each requiring meticulous efforts in proposal writing, stakeholder engagement, compliance, and reporting. Despite our best efforts, we faced a rejection rate of approximately 60% for funding proposals, underscoring the competitive nature of grant acquisition. To sustain our operations, we estimated pursuing or submitting 160 grants or projects, with each grant requiring an average of 12 hours of internal capacity, translating to a cost exceeding $82,000 in grant writing and compliance efforts. Become a Walls Insider: Join us in creating transformative change by becoming a Walls Insider. Whether you aspire to expand access to fresh produce, support youth and adults in the tech industry, combat poverty, or beautify our communities, your contribution as a Walls Insider can drive meaningful impact. Sign up today and be a catalyst for positive change in our neighborhoods. As we reflect on the achievements and challenges of 2023, we remain committed to our mission of empowering communities through art, education, and advocacy. Together, let us continue to build a brighter future for all. About the Author Thomas Donley (The Walls Project’s CFO and Regional Director to Colorado) Tom has over 15 years in nonprofit and NGO accounting, finance, and operating knowledge. Having started with the large regional CPA firm EideBailly LLP in Denver, Colorado, and specializing in nonprofit, government, and hospital financial audits before moving to Brussels, Belgium where I was the Finance Director for ILGA-Europe - Europe’s largest membership-based LGBTI organization. After moving to Louisiana and being introduced to The Walls Project, I served as Finance Directors for an International School, Coastal Restoration nonprofit, and served on many boards.
- Booking a Mural
BRCC undergraduate artist, Jessica Wilson (ZAZZ) has teamed up with lead artist and Walls Project Public Art Program Coordinator, Morgan Udoh, to create a modern mural that promises to breathe new life into our newly redesigned EBRPL Outreach Center's parking lot. As Jessica settled into the production of this second mural under the pre-apprenticeship pilot we checked in on her view of the Public Art industry she is entering. What first interested you in a creative career? Creative work has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions in others, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on the world. What has been most rewarding or surprising about pre-apprenticing with the Aalls Project on murals? I found myself enjoying the process of making public art and giving my skills to a city that has made me. What would you say to other emerging artists trying to break into the public art field? Past failures don't determine future successes. It's taking something blank and making it meaningful. You can't do everything alone; it takes a village to build you up to create change in the world.
- U.S. Forest Service Awards $6,000,000 for Baton Roots’ Agroforestry Apprenticeship
BATON ROUGE, LA – The Walls Project, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to tearing down societal barriers that hinder people from living safe, healthy, and prosperous lives, is thrilled to announce the receipt of a transformative $6 million grant from the U.S. Forest Service (USDA) which will enable the organization to launch an agroforestry apprenticeship program. This historic investment in Baton Rouge is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act through the Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry program. The Walls Project is collaborating with key local partners on this project including Baton Rouge Green, East Baton Rouge Parish Housing Authority (EBRPHA), and the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge (BREC). This project will provide paid workforce training to support and sustain tree planting and green infrastructure projects that benefit vulnerable community housing populations suffering extreme heat and inequitable access to the urban tree canopy. East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome discusses the benefits this project will bring to residents of East Baton Rouge Parish. "As Mayor of Baton Rouge, I congratulate The Walls Project on securing $6 million through the U.S. Forest Service investment. This significant funding empowers our disadvantaged communities with new opportunities and paves the way for the next generation of urban foresters, arborists, and green advocates. The Agroforestry Apprenticeship Program, promoting tree equity, climate resilience, and workforce readiness, perfectly aligns with our vision for a brighter and more sustainable Baton Rouge. I am excited about the transformative impact this project will have on our community and commend The Walls Project for their dedication to our city's future." Trees mitigate extreme heat, conserve energy, provide shade, absorb stormwater, create wildlife habitat, and filter air and water. An urban tree canopy leads to better health outcomes, economic opportunities and jobs, and increased property values. July 2023 was the hottest month on record in communities across the country. Research has shown tree canopy cover reduces temperatures 11-19° F compared to communities with no tree cover. This project allows for the expansion of existing agroforestry efforts and partnerships championed by Baton Roots Community Farm, a program of The Walls Project. This initiative will add more than 1000 trees and train the workforce to maintain them. Nationally, $1.5 Billion dollars is funding projects expanding tree canopy and access to nature. 385 grants were awarded to 50 states, 2 territories, 3 U.S.-affiliated Pacific Islands, and multiple tribal communities. 100% of benefits will flow to communities in greatest need. On Thursday, September 21, 2023, Chief of the U.S. Forest Service Randy Moore, community stakeholders, and members of the press gathered at Southern University’s Valdry Center to acknowledge the local and national Investing in America's Urban and Community Forests awardees. Remarks from the U.S. Forest Service were followed by a tree planting on the Southern University Bluffs to commemorate this historic investment in Louisiana communities. Walls Project invites the Baton Rouge community to join them in this exciting endeavor as they work towards a more resilient and equitable future for all residents of Baton Rouge. More information about the funded proposals, as well as announcements about the grant program, is available on the Forest Service website. For more information about the Walls Project and Baton Roots Community Farm, please visit https://thewallsproject.org/batonroots. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this organization is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible State or local Agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information is also available in languages other than English. This publication made possible through a grant from the USDA Forest Service.