March 2026

Seeds of Change Hosts Its First Event

Choices Mentoring’s Seeds of Change program officially marked a major milestone this March with its very first community event — and the energy was electric. Seeds of Change is our greenhouse-to-community floral initiative, blending sustainable flower farming, hands-on job training, and neighborhood revitalization. Youth and returning citizens are learning every step of the floral supply chain — from seed planting and greenhouse cultivation to bouquet design, customer service, and running a CSA flower subscription. Bouquets grown through the program are sold at community events and through local partners, and a portion of every harvest is donated to senior centers, shelters, and beautification projects across Monroe, Louisiana.

This first event was proof of concept and so much more — real people, real skills, real flowers, and real futures taking root.

July 2024

Greenhouse Build Underway in Bryant Addition

With the support of volunteers and our local partners, the first greenhouse on our donated lot is now under construction. Youth in our urban agriculture program are helping design, plant, and manage the space — and fresh produce is expected by early fall.

June 2024

50-Yard Challenge Pilot Launches with Probation Youth

Five youth referred by the local probation program have begun the 50-Yard Challenge. With equipment sponsored by Raising Men Lawn Care, and entrepreneurship training from Mission Bridges, participants are already mowing, learning, and earning toward their LLCs.

May 2024

Restorative Reentry Cohort Kicks Off

Our restorative justice program welcomed its first group of participants this spring. The group is completing weekly workshops and working on local beautification projects while preparing for full-time employment.