Learn the details of a unique lettuce growing business created to provide vocational training as well as a steady source of revenue for the non-profit Milestone Centers, Inc. The head growers will take us through the 3,000 sq. foot greenhouse and teach us about the hydroponic system: how the varieties of lettuce are chosen and planted, the IPM and pesticide-reduction practices used, disease management, and heating elements of the greenhouse, as well as the state-of-the-art electrical components of the fans and lights. We’ll get a sneak peak into new research being done on a propane furnace to produce electricity. Participants will be privy to the non-profit’s business plan and strategies for marketing and generating maximized profit in lettuce sales. We’ll also learn how Milestone integrates vocational training into vending at farmers' markets and delivering to CSA Salad Club members.

Milestone is a private, nonprofit community mental health and mental retardation agency serving the needs of residents in western Pennsylvania. The agency offers confidential counseling, rehabilitation and training, information and referral services, consultation, education and prevention services, developmental activities programs, and much more. Milestone has a well-developed social enterprise program in which the focus of the venture is meeting a double-bottom line - the simultaneous creation of both a financial and a social return on investment. The greenhouse/lettuce enterprise is generating fees that will sustain the business and, more importantly, meet their mission by providing vocational training and employment opportunities.

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