The Idaho Out-of-School Network team recently enjoyed a delightful and educational trip to Peaceful Belly Farm, an all-organic farm and restaurant that also hosts the Vine and Branch Ranch Community Garden afterschool program. The visit was filled with hands-on activities, delicious food, and meaningful discussions.
The day began with an exciting activity where the team learned to make and augment natural dyes from flowers in the garden. This hands-on experience not only taught them about the natural world but also sparked their creativity and curiosity.
After the dye-making session, the team gathered for a delicious lunch prepared with fresh, organic ingredients from the farm and their local partners. The meal was a perfect example of farm-to-table dining, showcasing the flavors and benefits of organic produce. While the team enjoyed their meal, they reviewed results from a recent Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment the team partook in found that as a group they have complementary strengths and a unique approach to influence through building and maintaining strong relationships.
The highlight of the day was a collaborative session with Darnisha Orcutt, the Chief Program Officer of ION’s parent organization Jannus Inc. Together, they worked on establishing the core values that will guide ION moving forward. This discussion was a valuable opportunity for the team to contribute their ideas and learn about the importance of values in community programming.
The trip to Peaceful Belly Farms was a memorable experience for everyone involved, blending education, community, and fun in a beautiful, natural setting. The Idaho Out-of-School Network looks forward to more such enriching experiences in the future.
