Chicago Youth Harvest Potential on Student-Run Farm

In Chicago’s South Side, students from the Gary Comer Youth Center lead the Comer Crops Youth Farm, a two-acre urban farm recognized as the largest student-run operation in Illinois. Through hands-on agricultural learning, students gain skills in crop cultivation, animal care, and sustainability while supporting local food security. Most of the farm’s produce stays within the community, benefiting families, school meals, and nearby food pantries. This initiative showcases how urban youth can positively transform their environment through teamwork and sustainable agriculture.