Even Further BEEyond
By Brandon Reynolds, CGC Community Engagement Coordinator
Most folks think beekeeping is responsible for my interest in conservation, but that's only partially true. One of the first "green" skills I learned was the art of composting through the Civic Garden Center's Master Composter program in 2017. While this course taught students high-level food waste reduction techniques, it initiated a paradigm shift in my life by demonstrating how small change agents (like microbes and soldier fly larvae) can inspire the average person to make monumental lifestyle changes.
In the following years, I secured numerous grants from corporate and government partners to install pollinator gardens across the city with youth, young adults and resident volunteers. My business, B the Keeper, helped organizations like WCPO 9 News and St. Xavier High School as well as a host of residential clients express their commitment to greenspace accessibility. I've also witnessed dozens of youth pursue sustainability careers after being exposed to the outdoors. I trust the experiences and the skills I've honed along the way can provide a solid foundation from which to make a significant impact and have prepared me to bolster the CGC's educational programming, ecological efforts and brand recognition while maximizing its ability to inspire residents and youth to connect with the outdoors.
My first six weeks on the job have flown by (yes, I'm having an absolute blast). It's been gratifying to see the momentum and knowledge I gained during my for-profit days be accelerated through the CGC's diverse team, robust volunteer network and passionate community partners. We hit the ground running this fall with a volunteer-powered planting in partnership with the Community Action Agency, built an expansion plan for the existing pollinator habitat at WCPO 9 News and have a few more special projects in the chamber for 2025.
After spending most of my professional career in the environmental industry, I am resolute in my belief that urban agriculture and conservation are legitimate pathways and catalysts for residents to cultivate passion, purpose and ownership in their communities. It’s never been more vital for the CGC to preserve its leadership role as convener, collaborator and community builder. It’s time—now more than ever—to really think expansively about the communities we serve.
In my role as Community Engagement Coordinator at the CGC, I hope to use my zest for life, desire for innovation and team-building expertise to help others find purpose in nature while building safe spaces for people and the planet, one step at a time. Want to join me? Be sure to register as a CGC volunteer!