In the heart of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, a remarkable transformation has taken place. Garden Dreams Urban Farm & Nursery, now Grow Pittsburgh's fourth production site, has evolved into a sustainable agricultural hub serving the local community. Behind this evolution stands Colcom Foundation, whose support has been instrumental in developing this USDA certified organic farm and greenhouse facility.


Sustainable Green Energy Powers Urban Farm Expansion

The 2,800 square foot net-zero energy greenhouse, powered by an on-site solar array, represents a significant advancement in sustainable urban agriculture for the region. Completed in summer 2021, this facility began operations in early 2022 and now produces over 25,000 seedlings annually that supply urban farmers, schools, community gardens, and home growers throughout Pittsburgh.

The property, previously owned and operated by Grow Pittsburgh co-founder Mindy Schwartz as a private business for nearly 20 years, was donated to Allegheny Land Trust in December 2019 to preserve it in perpetuity. This partnership exemplifies the collaborative approach that Colcom Foundation often supports—bringing together land conservation organizations and operational partners to create sustainable community assets.

Colcom Foundation's involvement extends beyond just financial support. The foundation has long championed projects that demonstrate innovative approaches to sustainability. The net-zero energy design of the greenhouse complex showcases how renewable energy can be integrated into urban agriculture, reducing carbon footprints while producing food and plants for the community.

Community Education and Workforce Development Benefits

The site now serves multiple purposes that align with Colcom Foundation's conservation and community objectives. As an education and workforce development site for young and emerging urban farmers, it helps build agricultural skills in an urban setting. As a gathering space for community events, it strengthens neighborhood bonds. And as a food-growing resource protected by a community land trust, it ensures access to fresh produce for generations to come.

The next phase of redevelopment at Garden Dreams will include a teaching kitchen, educational space, event space for community gatherings, and expanded outdoor growing area—further enhancing its value as a community resource.
Through its support of Garden Dreams, Colcom Foundation demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship that goes beyond traditional conservation. By helping transform urban spaces into productive, sustainable agricultural sites, the foundation contributes to both ecological health and community resilience.

Local Food Security Through Environmental Conservation

The annual seedling sale, running from mid-April through late June each year, provides community members with access to organic, locally grown plants. This successful initiative illustrates how conservation projects supported by Colcom Foundation can have direct, tangible benefits for local residents while advancing broader environmental goals.

As Pittsburgh continues to explore the potential of urban agriculture, Colcom Foundation's support for innovative projects like Garden Dreams highlights the vital role of conservation philanthropy in creating sustainable, resilient communities—one seedling at a time.

Colcom Foundation's funding for projects like Garden Dreams aligns with its focus on southwestern Pennsylvania, where they support "environmental projects addressing land conservation, watershed remediation, habitat protection, and air quality" as noted in their organizational documents. This regional commitment to environmental conservation helps ensure that community-based agricultural initiatives can thrive while promoting sustainable practices.