Urban Grower Classes

This class series, running 2023 through 2025 will focus on teaching sustainable growing skills for gardeners and farmers. Class formats may vary between field days, lectures, online classes, and other alternative formats. Registration is required, but classes are free!

Accommodations for translation can be made by request, and there is a question in the registration regarding translation needs. Please contact us with any questions.

Upcoming Classes

October 21st, 11am – 12:00pm, at Lake St. Microfarm, Garlic Planting Skillshare

Learn how to select, source, and plant garlic at this skill-share style class. Bed prep, fertility needs, and tips for getting the best spring regrowth and bulb development will be discussed. This class will include hands on planting opportunities and demonstrations.

Register for Garlic Planting SkillShare

November 2nd, 6-8pm, at CenterPointe, Preserve your Harvest: Easy Lacto-Fermentation and Freezing

Learn how to preserve your harvest with freezing and fermentation! We will cover the basic processes and steps of lacto-fermentation and freezing, supply and material needs, and food safety considerations when preserving produce with these two preservation strategies. This class will be demonstration based, with hands on activities for participants, including making lacto-pickled radishes and practicing different methods for freezing greens, tomatoes, and peppers.

Register for Preserve your Harvest: Easy Lacto-Fermentation and Freezing

Business and Marketing for Small Scale Farmers

This class series, running 2023 through 2024 will focus on teaching introductory business and marketing skills for small scale farmers. This series will be 12 parts and will start in September 2023. Registration is required but classes are free for participants. Classes will be delivered in English, with Arabic and/or Kurdish Kurmanji translation available.

Upcoming Classes

October 25th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Family Service Lincoln Office, Business Management Fundamentals: Finance Management & Accounting.

“Finance Management & Accounting” equips individuals with financial skills for personal and business success. Participants will learn the art of effective budgeting, enabling them to manage their finances efficiently. Additionally, the course covers the establishment of checking and savings accounts, demystifies the process of accessing loans by teaching when to consider one, how to secure it, and how to plan for responsible repayment. Lastly, students will grasp the significance of meticulous recordkeeping in accounting, understanding why it’s crucial for making informed financial decisions in both personal and professional contexts. This class is taught by Kelly Ross, Executive Director of ECHO Collective.

Register for Business Management Fundamentals: Finance Management and Accounting

November 8th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Family Service Lincoln Office, Business Management Fundamentals: Brand Identity.

“Brand Identity” discusses what makes a brand’s identity. Participants will gain an understanding of the importance of a strong brand identity in establishing a unique market presence and fostering customer loyalty. The course also provides insights into the critical aspects of choosing an effective business name and crafting impactful logos that resonate with target audiences, ensuring students are well-equipped to create a lasting and memorable brand image for their ventures. This class is taught by Kelly Ross, Executive Director of ECHO Collective.

Register for Business Management Fundamentals: Brand Identity

November 15th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Family Service Lincoln Office, Business Management Fundamentals: Marketing.

“Marketing” will provide individuals with the tools to effectively promote their businesses. Participants will learn how to use the power of social media platforms to reach their target audiences and build a strong online presence. The course covers the core principles of marketing, emphasizing best practices for creating compelling marketing strategies, and highlights the importance of building meaningful relationships with customers to foster brand loyalty and long-term success in today’s competitive market. This class is taught by Kelly Ross, Executive Director of ECHO Collective.

Register for Business Management Fundamentals: Marketing

December 6th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Family Service Lincoln Office, Business Management Fundamentals: Planning.

“Planning” is an interactive class designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills. Participants will learn the art of crafting a comprehensive business plan, gaining insights into the key elements necessary for success. This course also emphasizes the important role of business plans in guiding decision-making, securing funding, and measuring progress. It also provides strategies for setting and achieving growth-oriented goals, ensuring that students are well-equipped to chart a clear path towards success in their ventures. This class is taught by Kelly Ross, Executive Director of ECHO Collective.

Register for Business Management Fundamentals: Planning

December 13th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Family Service Lincoln Office, Business Management Fundamentals: Taxes

“Taxes” provides a clear overview of common deductions, helping individuals optimize their financial obligations. This course also provides an overview of tax structure in the United States and a preview of some of the taxes you might be expected to pay as a small business. This class is taught by Kelly Ross, Executive Director of ECHO Collective.

Register for Business Management Fundamentals: Taxes

December 20th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Family Service Lincoln Office, Business Management Fundamentals: Becoming a Business.

“Becoming a Business” explores the advantages of moving from self-employment to a formal business entity. It gives participants the information to decide the right time to make this transition, considering factors such as growth potential and legal changes. Additionally, the class discusses the various types of businesses available, helping individuals make informed decisions about selecting the right business structure to align with their unique goals and aspirations. This class is taught by Kelly Ross, Executive Director of ECHO Collective.

Register for Business Management Fundamentals: Becoming a Business

Contact

If you want more information about our current classes, or have questions about your registration, contact aGerdes@familyservicelincoln.org.