About Us
Rooted in Nature, Growing Together
The Valley Fellowship is an independent nonprofit working in partnership with local families and community members to create nature-based learning opportunities in Sullivan County, New York.
Our Story
Many children today have fewer opportunities to spend meaningful time outdoors, grow food, or care for living things. The Valley Fellowship began with a simple belief that these experiences matter and that children deserve the chance to dig in the soil, observe the seasons, and build a real connection with the natural world.
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Founded by Crystal Merino in Sullivan County, New York, The Valley Fellowship began as a small garden project at a local daycare. What started with a few raised beds and curious toddlers has grown into a community-centered program rooted in curiosity, care, and hands-on learning.
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Today, programs like Roots & Boots invite children, families, and volunteers to help care for gardens, soil, and small livestock while exploring the rhythms of food production. We hope to cultivate not only thriving gardens, but also a community where people learn from one another and grow together.
What We Do
Our current work centers around the Roots & Boots garden and agricultural learning program, where children and volunteers help care for plants, soil, and small livestock.
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Through these experiences, participants learn:
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How food is grown
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How to care for animals and living ecosystems
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The seasonal rhythms of nature
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The value of curiosity, patience, and stewardship
Meet The Team
The Valley Fellowship is supported by a small but dedicated group of community members who believe in the power of nature-based learning.
