Lexi is a Fort Collins resident and active Plant it Forward participant. She learned about the program through her volunteer work at the Gardens on Spring Creek. “I regularly volunteer at their special events and always make a point to see what they’re up to in the community. I was informed that they were launching a new outreach program called Plant it Forward, and as a gardener was immediately interested in participating!”

Lexi grows fruits and vegetables every year in her home garden. She mentioned, “It never fails that I end up with way more tomatoes than one person can consume, believe me, I tried.” She’s tried freezing them and making them into the sauce, but no matter what, Lexi always ended up with excess. “Knowing that I could share my fresh produce with the Fort Collins community gave me the opportunity to give back to Larimer County in a significant way.”

Lexi has been involved with Plant it Forward since the beginning. Originally she began as a donor, “I had extra produce the first year, and I made a few donations to the program.” The following summer, Lexi took on the role of a Neighborhood Champion, a volunteer from the area who agrees to transport the produce to drop off locations, and she hasn’t looked back. “I eagerly plant my neighborhood sign out front each spring and wait for others to ask me what it’s for. I love sharing the Plant it Forward mission and encouraging others to participate. I now grow 2-3x what I used to grow so that I can contribute as much as I can to the program and ultimately, to the wonderful community of Fort Collins. I only wish I had more raised beds!”

Lexi mentioned her favorite part of participating in the program is how good she feels about giving back. “Growing my own food is rewarding in itself, but being able to share that with others – nothing that gives me more warm fuzzies. I love knowing that I’m growing local, sustainable, healthy AND delicious vegetables that I can share.” Lexi Plants it Forward because it, “Provides me an opportunity to do something I already enjoy while giving back to the community. Everything worth having is better shared.”

Lexi Plants it Forward, will you? Your donation will help feed neighbors in need leading to a healthier and more vibrant community for all. Plant it Forward is made successful by backyard gardeners of all levels and of all donation sizes coming together to fight hunger in our community. Click here to learn more about the program and how you, too, can participate.