Greenagers

by Austen Dupont

Greenagers is a small community-based non-profit located at the historic April Hill Farm in Egremont, Massachusetts. Our mission is simply represented in four words: youth, environment, work, and community. Established in 2007 as a program for The Center for Peace through Culture, Greenagers has grown in size and influence through its multitude of programs that provide employment and volunteer opportunities for teens and young adults. In 2013 Greenagers, Inc. became its own 501 (c) (3) organization while encompassing a broader range of options for local youth involvement.

Recently, the fall harvest season has been in full swing at April Hill with cider and smiles galore. Our farm team has been diligently harvesting and preparing for the long northeastern winter. Much of our seasonal crops go to various food share programs including Berkshire Bounty. New farming opportunities continue to develop as Greenagers establishes partnerships with local organizations such as Berkshire Agricultural Ventures (BAV).

Another new development at the beautiful April Hill Farm is our barn restoration. Considered a "mid-century" barn the historic society has partnered with Greenagers to bring this relic back to its subtly modernized former glory. The near future will be able to host a wide range of both pathways to the trades programs as well as good old open mic nights on the hill.

Last and certainly not least, our eldest and so far biggest program is trails and conservation. Trail crews throughout the tri-state area from Northwestern Connecticut to Western New York and all of Berkshire County work tirelessly to make trails more accessible to the public. Teens and young adults are given the chance to learn in a direct and hands-on way exactly how our environment works, how to foster sustainable practices, and, most of all, make memories.

Ultimately, Greenagers work to serve the community. Whether it is splitting wood at the wood bank, planting vegetables in the greenhouse, learning carpentry in the barn, stopping by to "bah" at some sheep, or enjoying the view, Greenagers are happy to be part of the wonderful Berkshire community. Our property is open to the public, stop in anytime at 62 North Undermountain Rd Egremont, MA.

Lily Pond. Photo: Patrick White