Learn About GVI’s History!

GVI was founded in 2011 in Westport, CT and by 2015 had fully moved its base of operations and programs to focus on Bridgeport, CT.

In 2015 GVI underwent a leadership change and shifted to paid staff after years of operating as a fully volunteer-run organization. In 2017 this new staff led GVI through a shift that incorporated values of racial equity and antiracism into new goals, which became centered on food justice.

In 2021, GVI’s 5 year lease from the city of Bridgeport for the land that hosts Reservoir Community Farm was coming to an end, and plans to refuse a renewal of the lease and redevelop the land threatened the farm and GVI’s future.

Our community showed up to support the farm big-time, and through petitioning, showing up at important meetings, conducting surveys to quantify the benefit of the farm, and more. Thanks to this support we secured a new lease after many months of shifting our focus to this campaign for a new lease. Although this was a big win for food justice in Bridgeport, it consumed a lot of our resources and time and put significant stress on our organization.

In late 2023 through early 2024, we worked to shift ownership, tools, and responsibility for our community gardens to community garden captains. We opened up new partnerships with other organizations in Bridgeport to continue supporting youth education and leadership. We received generous funding through grants with funders that believe in our mission and wanted to support us in our transition.

In 2024, we are using Reservoir Community Farm as the core site for our work to create a more just food system in Bridgeport, CT. We are driving this effort by 1) offering education and training opportunities, 2) hosting local urban farmers, and 3) engaging the community (through everything from offering affordable and nutritious food to a space for volunteer days).

GVI’s board and Transition Team are working hard to advance exciting plans for the future and ensure that our land remains as a space where urban farmers, especially Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) farmers can cultivate food and community in Bridgeport.

How do I volunteer with GVI?

During the summer season, we have open volunteer days at the farm every Friday and Saturday from 10am-2pm. All ages and ability levels are welcome and valued. For groups of 4+, please email diego@gogvi.org to arrange a time to volunteer. Find more information on volunteering at https://www.gogvi.org/volunteer.

How can I donate to GVI?

GVI relies on your generosity to help keep our mission going.  All of your donations are tax deductible.  You can donate at https://donorbox.org/green-village-initiative.

Are there resources available to learn about gardening?

Yes! All information is available on our website under the tab “RESOURCES”  Here is a link to the gardening specific resources https://www.gogvi.org/for-growers.

Where can I learn more about food justice?

In November, 2023 we released “The Food Justice Framework.” The FJF serves as a guide for people who are interested in incorporating food justice and racial equity into their organizations’ work, but who don’t know where to start. Here is a link to the FJF https://www.gogvi.org/the-food-justice-framework & here is a link where you can find information about food access in Bridgeport https://www.gogvi.org/for-everyone.

I am a teacher, do you have any resources for my classroom?

Yes, We have extensive resources for K-6 teachers (these resources can be adapted to 6-12 as well) including lesson plans, bilingual materials, professional development workshops and much more at https://www.gogvi.org/for-educators.

We also offer field trips at the farm. You can learn more and apply for a field trip at https://forms.gle/A3WzKKacjHHuxcaF6.

Where can I contact GVI?

The email address info@goGVI.org is monitored by GVI Volunteer Board members. Media inquiries can be sent to media@gogvi.org. Questions about volunteering and the farm can be directed to diego@gogvi.org. You can sign for our newsletter at tinyurl.com/newslettergvi.

Our mailing address is 135 Clarence Street, Bridgeport, CT 06608.