MSK serves as an advocate for environmental and social justice, addressing systemic barriers that impact historically marginalized communities. The organization works to increase community engagement in policy discussions, promote equitable resource allocation, and provide technical assistance to grassroots organizations. Through research, public education, and coalition-building, MSK amplifies community voices to influence climate resilience, housing security, and sustainable development policies. 

Population(s) Served

• Retired people

• Unemployed people

• Veterans

• Low-income people

• Ex-offenders

MSK empowers communities through food sovereignty initiatives, providing access to fresh, locally grown produce while educating residents on healthy eating, plant-based nutrition, and sustainable food systems. Through partnerships with DC Central Kitchen, local food hubs, and mutual aid networks, MSK bridges the gap between urban farming and community-driven food security solutions.

Through collaborations with environmental agencies and workforce development partners, this program trains residents, veterans, and youth in urban forestry, storm-water management, and climate mitigation strategies. Participants gain hands-on experience in tree planting, soil conservation, and Eco-friendly landscaping while supporting community-led environmental restoration projects.

This program transforms underutilized urban spaces into hubs for community resilience, food production, and environmental justice research. Through partnerships with the USDA NRCS, DC Central Kitchen, The Mission Continues, and local organizations, MSK cultivates fresh produce for food-insecure residents while testing innovative storm-water management, soil remediation, and renewable energy solutions to combat climate change in urban settings. 

MSK’s Ag-STEAM (Agriculture, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) initiative engages youth and community members in experiential learning through hands-on sustainability projects. This includes vermiculture, hydroponics, soil health, and renewable energy solutions integrated with urban agriculture. The program fosters critical thinking, environmental stewardship, and workforce readiness for youth interested in sustainable careers.

This program provides returning citizens, youth, and marginalized individuals with hands-on training in sustainable agriculture, urban farming, and green infrastructure. Participants gain employable skills in agroecology, solar installation, water conservation, and food sovereignty while contributing to the operation of MSK’s applied research garden. The program is designed to reduce recidivism, promote self-sufficiency, and create pathways to employment in the green economy. 

MSKs Growing Out of Trouble (G.O.T) program is an intergenerational vocational training initiative that provides experiential learning opportunities centered in agriculture and STEAM principles to support the resilience needs of marginalized communities across the nation from the site of the organizations applied research garden in Washington, DC . Rooted in trauma-informed practices, it integrates Ag-STEAM principles, merging agriculture, environmental sciences, and STEM disciplines. By providing hands-on experiences and classroom instruction, participants develop skills in horticulture, environmental conservation, and natural resource management. Partnering with local organizations enhances the programs reach and impact. G.O.T fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and community resilience, creating a safe and inclusive space for lifelong learning and collaboration across generations. 

Population(s) Served

• Retired people

• Unemployed people

• Veterans

• Low-income people

• Ex-offenders