High school gardening club wins $3,000 prize

FERGUS – The Desjardins Foundation is supporting young people at St. Joseph Catholic School by awarding $3,000 for their St. Joseph Indoor/Outdoor Gardening Club project.

“We will be able to use vegetables grown with our Food & Friends program, and our Salad Day to promote locally grown food,” said St. Joseph teacher Olivia Trussell.

“As the local Desjardins insurance agent, and proud father of a St. Joseph Catholic School graduate, I am honoured to be able to support this initiative,” said Steve Lund.

The Desjardins Foundation Prizes help school staff and youth workers fund school and community projects for preschool, elementary and high school students. 

Teachers and youth workers are tremendously dedicated to engaging, motivating and inspiring young people. 

The financial aid provided through this program helps turn their ideas into reality.

“Many of us have had a teacher who made a big impact on us, who helped us discover a new passion, realize what we’re capable of, or expand our horizons,” said Nancy Lee, general manager of the Desjardins Foundation.

“Teachers and youth workers are on the front lines with our kids every day; they see the needs and learning opportunities that show up in the everyday moments. 

“It’s an honour to be able to support these extraordinary people who move mountains every day for our kids,” said Lee.

Established in 1970, the Desjardins Foundation is a charitable organization that contributes to young people’s academic success by awarding prizes and scholarships, and partnering with respected organizations. 

In 2022, it awarded $5.5 million and benefited 479,000 young people through its initiatives. The Desjardins Foundation is a philanthropic arm of Desjardins Group, Canada’s largest cooperative financial group.