CofC for Urban Agriculture was sanctioned as a student organization at the College of Charleston in December of 2009 with the goal of promoting urban community gardens on campus and througout the Charleston community. In January of 2010, Charleston Urban Agriculture was officially incorporated as a non-profit registered in the state of South Carolina as Demeter, Inc. Demeter is the Greek goddess of agriculture who controls the seasons and taught man how to farm.
Mission Statement
We will EDUCATE campuses and communities on the benefits of organic, local produce and healthy eating, as well as the political, environmental and social implications associated with the current agricultural system.
We will MOTIVATE support for programs, laws, organizations and initiatives already in place that match or compliment our vision for the future.
We will CULTIVATE our own community gardens to be built, managed and maintained by us for the benefit of the community.
Vision Statement
We envision communities in which social and environmental justice are the main pillars of the agricultural system.
Farmers in this system would no longer use products and methods that have harmful effects such as pollution, soil degradation, and disease. Community members would no longer buy non-local products that contribute to international economic exploitation and the continued emission of harmful fossil fuels in transport.
Farmers and members of the community would instead establish a mutually beneficial relationship that would create vibrant local economies, foster environmentally sustainable practices, and facilitate healthy, diversified diets regardless of socioeconomic status.
