Summer 2025 Vivian’s Door AG Club Adventure: Growing More Than Plants Growing Leaders, Cultivating Dreams

• AG Club

Summer 2025 Vivian’s Door AG Club Adventure: Growing More Than Plants Growing Leaders, Cultivating Dreams

“You can’t harvest what you haven’t planted.” — George Washington Carver

This summer, our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns—an inspiring group of underserved youth—embarked on a six-week journey that was enriching, powerful, and transformative. But this wasn’t just about agriculture. It was about cultivating pride, purpose, and a deeper connection between the land and each other.

From working on local farms to exploring flower nurseries and garden centers, these young leaders didn’t just show up—they showed out. They got their hands dirty, their hearts engaged, and their minds opened to the possibilities of conservation, stewardship, and sustainability. They learned the rhythms of nature and the responsibilities that come with caring for it.

Guest speakers sparked meaningful conversations about food deserts and food insecurity, as well as resume writing and leadership. Hands-on projects, such as cultivating garden beds and constructing flowerpots, planted seeds of knowledge, resilience, and self-reliance. These interns didn’t just learn about agriculture—they lived it. They embraced the legacy of Black agricultural excellence and discovered how growing food and flowers can also grow confidence, leadership, and community impact.

Let’s take a walk through their journey and celebrate the lessons, laughter, and legacy they cultivated together.

Meadowlark Blueberry Farm – A Sweet Start to Many Adventures

The Vivian’s Door AG Club kicked off its summer field trip series with a visit to Meadowlark Blueberry Farm, a beautiful family-owned gem nestled in South Alabama near Weeks Bay in Fairhope, Alabama. Since opening in April 2022, Meadowlark has become known for its naturally grown blueberries—and they’re just getting started, with plans to expand into beef, chicken, eggs, and goat’s milk.

For our interns, this first trip was more than just a sunny day outdoors—it was a hands-on introduction to the world of agriculture. They rolled up their sleeves, strapped their baskets on, and picked ripe, juicy blueberries straight from the bushes, while competing with their fellow interns for the most blueberries picked. Best of all, everyone was able to take their pickings home to enjoy. But beyond the sweetness of the berries, the experience sparked honest conversations about sustainable farming and the hard work it takes to run a small agricultural business.

For many of our young leaders, it was their first time setting foot on a working farm. It opened their eyes and planted seeds of curiosity, inspiration, and possibility for future careers in agri-business. And this was just the beginning. The AG Club has a full season of field trips planned; each designed to deepen knowledge, build relationships, and explore the rich and diverse world of agriculture right here in our community.

Building Foundations: Flower Beds and Future Dreams with Harry Small

One of the most powerful moments from our Vivian’s Door AG Club Summer Youth Program came when Mr. Harry Small, owner of H.A.S. Remodeling and Painting—and proud graduate of our StreetWise MBA program—returned to pour into our interns. He didn’t just bring tools—he brought heart, legacy, and a deep commitment to paying it forward.

As a seasoned Black business owner and skilled craftsman, Mr. Small led a hands-on demonstration, teaching our interns how to build metal flower beds with patience, purpose, and pride. But he didn’t stop there. He personally constructed flower beds for each intern, giving them a head start on their gardening journey and being a living symbol of what community support truly looks like.

And Mr. Small’s generosity extended beyond the lesson. He took time to fix loose nails in our garden beds and even replaced ceiling tiles in the Vivian’s Door Business Center—quiet acts of service that speak volumes about his character and care. This seminar wasn’t just a lesson in construction—it was a lesson in legacy. Mr. Small showed our youth how agriculture and craftsmanship intersect, and how small businesses can empower the next generation through mentorship, skill-sharing, and love.

Thanks to Mr. Harry Small, our interns now have their own flower beds to nurture and grow—just like the seeds of wisdom and encouragement he planted during his visit. We are deeply grateful for his example, leadership, and unwavering commitment to building up our youth and community.

Dr. Nettles’ Organic Farm – Where Heritage Meets Healing

Vivian’s Door Ag Club interns had the honor of stepping into a living legacy at Dr. Nettles’ organic herb farm, home to Dr. Nettles Natural Beauty, LLC, a family business rooted in South Alabama since 1933. This field trip wasn’t just a farm visit—it was a journey into the heart of ancestral agricultural tradition, cultural preservation, and holistic healing.

Dr. Nettles welcomed us into a space where the soil tells stories and every plant carries wisdom. Her farm represents more than just land; it serves as a living archive of Black farming traditions, herbal medicine, and sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations. From pharmacy to farming, from homemaking to healing, Dr. Nettles’ family has cultivated a powerful legacy that stretches from North Alabama to the Gulf Coast.

Our interns rolled up their sleeves and got to work—planting, harvesting, and learning firsthand what it means to care for the earth with intention and respect. They didn’t just learn about agriculture; they were immersed in the sacred relationship between land and wellness. Dr. Nettles shared her deep knowledge of herbs and botanicals, revealing how Black families have long used these gifts of nature for food, medicine, and holistic health.

Her apothecary line, crafted with organically grown ingredients, reflects the wisdom of our ancestors and the resilience of our communities. It’s a testament to the power of Black innovation rooted in tradition.

Throughout the visit, our interns gained more than skills—they gained insight. They saw how farming can be a form of healing, how tradition can be a tool for empowerment, and how Black agricultural practices continue to shape our future. This experience was a reminder: our history is alive, our culture is rich, and our youth are ready to carry the torch forward.

All-A-Bloom Florists & Gifts – Where Creativity Blossoms

For the past two summers, AG Club interns have traded soil for stalks and stems, stepping into a world of color, creativity, and community for another joyful visit to All-A-Bloom Florists and Gifts, a beloved flower shop nestled in the heart of Mobile, Alabama. From the moment we entered, we were welcomed with warmth, wisdom, and the delightful scent of fresh flowers. All-A-Bloom isn’t just a flower shop—it’s a sanctuary of beauty and care, where every petal tells a story and every bouquet is crafted with love.

Our day began with a behind-the-scenes tour that opened our eyes to the artistry and entrepreneurship behind floral design. The talented team at All-A-Bloom shared their secrets—from choosing seasonal flowers to creating arrangements that speak to the soul. It was a masterclass in turning nature’s gifts into expressions of joy, comfort, and celebration.

Then came the highlight: a spirited bouquet-building competition! Our interns dove in with enthusiasm, laughter echoing through the shop as they teamed up to design their own floral masterpieces. Each bouquet reflected the intern’s personalities, teamwork, and newfound appreciation for the craft.

And the best part? Every intern left with their own bouquet in hand, a fragrant and colorful reminder of the day’s creativity and connection. But this visit was more than just fun. It was a lesson in the power of small business, the importance of customer service, and the role creativity plays in entrepreneurship. All-A-Bloom showed our interns how passion and purpose can bloom into a business that touches lives and uplifts a community.

We’re genuinely grateful to the All-A-Bloom team for opening their doors and hearts to our young leaders. They didn’t just share flowers—they shared inspiration. And our interns walked away not only with beautiful arrangements, but with a deeper understanding of what it means to build something beautiful, meaningful, and lasting.

Guest Speaker Spotlight: Mrs. Beverly Cooper
– Food Justice is Community Justice

Our interns had the privilege of learning from Mrs. Beverly Cooper, a respected community leader and driving force behind Stand Up Mobile, an organization dedicated to voter education and engagement.  During her visit to Vivian’s Door office, Mrs. Cooper spoke with compassion and clarity about a critical issue: food insecurity and food deserts. She explained how the lack of access to fresh, affordable food impacts families, especially in underserved neighborhoods, and reminded the interns that food justice is community justice. 

To put the lesson into practice, she challenged each intern to design a meal that cost no more than $10, which must include at least one vegetable, one protein, and one carbohydrate. The exercise pushed them to think creatively about nutrition, affordability, and accessibility. The interns embraced the task, designing meals that balanced health and cost, from veggie-packed stir-fries to protein-rich wraps. Best of all, they were able to take home the ingredients after the exercise, turning their plans into real meals and bringing the lesson full circle.

More than a workshop, Mrs. Cooper’s visit was a moment of empowerment and transformation. Through her leadership with Stand Up Mobile, she continues to inspire young people, demonstrating how advocacy, education, and compassion can drive meaningful change. Through Stand Up Mobile, she continues to uplift voices, challenge injustice, and build a healthier, more equitable community. Her challenge left a lasting message: when we nourish both minds and bodies, we build stronger communities.

Flowerwood Nursery – Growing Knowledge and Green Dreams

Continuing their summer of agricultural discovery, our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns were treated to an unforgettable experience — a behind-the-scenes tour of Flowerwood Nursery, a cornerstone of Alabama’s horticulture industry and a leader in plant cultivation and distribution for over 85 years. From the moment they stepped onto the grounds, the interns were immersed in a world where science, care, and creativity converge to grow beauty from the soil.

Flowerwood opened its doors — and its heart — to our interns, guiding them through the intricate journey of a plant’s life, from a fragile seedling to a vibrant centerpiece in someone’s garden. They watched in awe as seasoned horticulturists demonstrated how plants are gently nurtured back to health, learning that recovery in nature, much like in life, requires patience, precision, and compassion. The interns gained hands-on experience with propagation techniques, plant labeling, and the meticulous process of preparing greenery for shipment to garden centers across the region.

Every step — from culturing and tagging to merchandising and logistics — revealed the deep intentionality behind the nursery’s operations. It was more than just a tour; it was a masterclass in how innovation and tradition work hand in hand to deliver thriving plants to homes and communities.

This experience didn’t just teach our interns about horticulture — it inspired them. They left Flowerwood with a newfound respect for the agricultural business and the quiet power of plants to transform spaces and lives. More importantly, they recognized the importance of attention to detail, care for living things, and thoughtful logistics as essential skills for any future entrepreneur or agri-professional.

We’re deeply grateful to Flowerwood Nursery for opening its doors and planting seeds of inspiration in the hearts of our interns. They returned not only with knowledge, but with a renewed passion to cultivate their own green dreams.

Our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns returned for a second summer to Zimlich’s Patio & Garden Shop, this time to work alongside shop staff. There’s something powerful about rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands in the soil — and that’s exactly what our interns did during their full workday at Zimlich’s Patio & Garden Shop, a beloved, locally owned garden center nestled among residences in Midtown Mobile, AL.

Zimlich’s has been a trusted South Alabama brand for decades, offering expert gardening advice, landscaping services, and a warm, welcoming space for anyone looking to grow something beautiful. On this special day, they opened their doors to our interns, giving them a chance to step into the rhythm of daily life at a community-rooted garden shop.

From cleaning and caring for greenery to learning the art of harvesting plants with precision, our students got a hands-on education in what it truly takes to keep a garden center thriving. They didn’t just observe — they worked. They learned. They connected.

This wasn’t just about plant care. It was about understanding the heartbeat of a small business that’s been sowing seeds of beauty and sustainability for generations. Our interns saw firsthand how Zimlich’s supports the community — not just with plants, but with knowledge, resources, and a deep commitment to helping neighbors grow their own green spaces.

By the end of the day, our interns walked away with more than just dirt under their nails. They gained practical skills, a deeper appreciation for the horticulture industry, and a renewed respect for the role small businesses play in shaping resilient, informed, and connected communities. The big plus was that each intern got to choose a plant of their choice to take home. Agriculture isn’t just about growing plants — it’s about growing people, purpose, and possibility.

There are moments in our journey that remind us why we do this work — and our recent visit to The Fuse Factory was one of those moments. Our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns had the privilege of attending a dynamic and heartfelt public speaking workshop led by Mary Frances Clarke, a longtime friend and collaborator through our enduring partnership with The Historic Avenue Foundation. Having her present at the Fuse Factory made the experience even more special — it felt like family pouring into family.

Mary Frances didn’t just teach public speaking — she unlocked it. She reminded our interns that strong communication is the heartbeat of leadership. Whether you’re pitching a business idea, interviewing for a job, or inspiring change in your community, your voice matters.

Throughout the session, she shared practical, empowering tips:

• How to calm nerves with deep breathing and positive self-talk.
• How posture and eye contact can speak volumes before you say a word.
• How to organize thoughts so your message flows with clarity and impact.
• How to use tone, pacing, and storytelling to truly connect with your audience.
• And most importantly, how consistent practice builds confidence and polish.

Our interns didn’t just sit and listen; they engaged, asked thoughtful questions, and reflected on their own communication styles. Many realized that public speaking isn’t just about standing at a podium — it’s about connecting, leading, and sharing your truth with conviction.

By the end of the workshop, they walked away with tools they can use not only for their final AG Club presentations, but for life — as students, professionals, and future community leaders.

We’re deeply grateful to Mary Frances Clarke, The Fuse Project, and The Historic Avenue Foundation for investing in our young people. This was more than a workshop — it was a moment of growth, empowerment, and legacy-building.

To wrap up a summer filled with hands-on learning and agricultural adventures, our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns spent a full, unforgettable day immersed in the wonders of Alabama’s coastal environment — thanks to the extraordinary coordination by Shemika Brown, Community Engagement Program Lead, of the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program.

This two-part field trip was a perfect blend of maritime learning, conservation, and fun. The day began at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, where our interns explored the aquarium and got up close with the diverse marine life that calls the Gulf Coast home. From fish and crabs to hammerheads, sea stars, and stingrays, they learned how these creatures thrive in their ecosystems and how conservation efforts help protect their habitats. It was a hands-on science experience that sparked curiosity and deepened their understanding of the natural world.

After a refreshing lunch at May’s Café, the interns headed to the Auburn University Shellfish Laboratory – Oyster Hatchery, where they were introduced to the fascinating world of aquaculture—the intersection of maritime and agriculture. Here, they discovered how oysters are cultivated from microscopic larvae to mature shellfish, and how these incredible organisms play a vital role in filtering water, supporting marine biodiversity, and sustaining coastal economies.

The hatchery tour revealed the science, care, and innovation behind oyster farming, giving our interns a new appreciation for sustainable seafood production and the environmental stewardship it requires. They saw firsthand how aquaculture is not just about food — it’s about balance, resilience, and the future of our waters.

This final field trip was more than just a day by the sea—it was a celebration of learning, a deep dive into the possibilities of agricultural careers, and a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between land and water. Our interns returned inspired, informed, and ready to explore how they can contribute to both fields in meaningful ways.

We’re incredibly thankful to the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program for making this experience possible. It was the perfect way to close out a summer of growth, discovery, and dreaming big.

As a special bonus during their summer journey, our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns returned to the office for a powerful, hands-on session focused on one of the most important tools for their future: the resume. This wasn’t just about formatting and bullet points—it was about helping each young person tell their story with confidence and clarity.

Lisa Riley, Senior Transition Coach, Challenger, Grey & Christmas, guided the interns step-by-step through the resume process. They learned how to highlight their unique skills, experiences, and accomplishments in a way that positions them for success—whether they’re applying for internships, summer jobs, leadership programs, or college opportunities. The room was filled with energy and purpose as each student crafted a resume that reflected not only what they had done, but also who they were becoming. By the end of the day, they walked out with more than just a document — they walked out with a sense of readiness, pride, and the tools to take their next big step toward their personal and professional goals.

Throughout the summer, our Vivian’s Door AG Club interns poured their energy and creativity into developing both individual and group presentations that continually showcased everything they learned. Divided into three teams — The Crop Crusaders, The Tree Toppers, and The Green Group — each intern had a role to play, with team leaders guiding their groups and reporting to our dedicated Farming Coordination Team. Over the course of six weeks, the interns researched, collaborated, and refined their topics: Crop Rotation, Drones in Agriculture, and Livestock Management. Each team received weekly scores on their progress, teamwork, and innovation, fueling a healthy dose of competition and camaraderie.

They worked to create their written individual presentation and visual group presentation with their Farming Coordination Team. Simultaneously, they worked with JaVaughnae Malone, Vivian’s Door Marketing Director, and Digital Strategist to create their group animated videos. Click here to view them.

The culmination of their efforts came at the AG Club Graduation Ceremony, held at the vibrant Fuse Factory. With proud parents in attendance, the interns took the stage to present their final projects and receive their certificate of completion for their hard work. The presentations were impressive, filled with passion, knowledge, and creativity. In a close contest, The Tree Toppers earned the highest overall score for their engaging and forward-thinking presentation on the use of drones in agriculture. The ceremony was a joyful celebration of growth, learning, and leadership — a fitting finale to a summer that planted seeds of possibility in every intern.

More Than Just a Summer Program

“Nature was our classroom, blueberries were our textbooks, and laughter was the soundtrack of the day.” — AG Club 2025 Experience

Looking back, the AG Club 2025 wasn’t just about learning agriculture – it was about growing young leaders. Students started with curiosity and ended with confidence. They began as observers and finished as participants. They came in with questions and left with purpose.

From berry farms to graduation stages, from $10 challenges to oyster labs, these students experienced the full spectrum of agriculture and discovered that farming is about so much more than growing plants. It’s about nourishing communities, addressing challenges, crafting beauty, and stewarding our world.

As one student might put it, they came for the agriculture and left with the confidence to change the world – one seed, one idea, one voice at a time. The 2025 season may be over, but the roots of knowledge, confidence, and purpose planted this summer will keep growing for years to come. Here’s to the next generation of agricultural leaders who know that the future is something they can grow—and nurture—with their own hands. View more inspiring pictures of the AG Club adventures in the Vivian’s Door Gallery.

Want to learn more about Vivian’s Door’s AG Club? Follow us for updates on next season’s adventures, where new stories of growth and discovery are always taking root. Reach out to us at info@viviansdoor.com or call us at (251) 610-9880.