When most people hear “FFA,” they picture rolling fields, barns and tractors. In the heart of Chicago’s South Side, however, the Gary Comer Youth Center FFA Chapter is reshaping that image by showing how agriculture can thrive anywhere — even on a rooftop.
Gary Comer Youth Center FFA members are dedicated to making a difference and supporting young agriculturists. This chapter is not only about discovering new opportunities, but also promoting urban agricultural literacy.
It holds a vibrant urban rooftop garden where members grow fresh produce, such as lettuce and cabbage. As part of their urban farm, they also have small-scale livestock and learn by getting their hands dirty and growing together. The chapter’s main mission is to empower young people in an urban area to explore the field of agriculture.
Chapter member engage with students about different types of milk.
Gary Comer’s Earth Day Event
Primarily on April 22, 2025, the chapter hosted a community-wide event promoting sustainable practices pertaining to agriculture. It collaborated with the community youth center to host the event. The culinary team prepped a salad with all the vegetables grown from the garden, ranging from the lettuce to the dressing.
The chapter event also promoted healthy living and connecting urban kids to nature. “I got to meet other young people who care about the Earth,” says Gary Comer FFA Chapter Secretary Aniyah Smith.
Smith and the chapter work productively to collaborate with the community on ideas, such as creating greener spaces and allowing the work of youth to prevail.
Overall, the Gary Comer FFA Chapter demonstrates that urban agriculture is about growing food and educating the public. Furthermore, it practices urban agricultural literacy by creating community initiatives and providing opportunities.
