This August, the Kids in the Mountain Garden Education Program, or KIMGE, brought children and families together for a four-week series of hands-on learning, exploration, and connection focused on food, health, and community.
Designed for children ages 5–12 and their families, the Kids in the Mountain Garden Education Program gives young people opportunities to learn by doing. Throughout the 2026 program, participants explored where food comes from, how healthy foods support our bodies, and how growing, preparing, and sharing food can bring people together. Activities encouraged children to ask questions, try new things, build practical skills, and learn alongside their families and community members.
A special part of the program was its mascot, KIMGE, the Colorado Bighorn Sheep turned gardener, who brought energy, fun, and a memorable sense of adventure to each Wednesday gathering. The mascot became a friendly symbol of the program and helped make the experience even more engaging for participating children.
The Kids in the Mountain Garden Education Program is about more than what happens during each session. It is part of Healthy Archuleta’s broader effort to engage children and families early in building knowledge, confidence, healthy habits, and connections to their community. Each experience helps young people see that they can play an active role in their own health, their families, and the local food system.
This year’s program would not have been possible without the generous support of the volunteers and families who participated, shared their time and knowledge, and helped create a welcoming environment for everyone. A special shout-out goes to PLPOA for supporting the 2026 program and helping make these opportunities available to local children and families.
The Kids in the Mountain Garden Education Program reminds us that building a healthier community can begin with something simple: giving children an opportunity to get their hands dirty, discover something new, and experience food, health, and community in a meaningful way.
For more information about KIMGE, visit https://www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/kids-in-the-mountain-garden.html. To stay informed about future events and activities, sign up for our newsletter by emailing fsfearchuleta@gmail.com.