The urban farming movement is returning substantial acres of abandoned inner city land to organic food production. Schools across the region are sprouting new gardens. The emerging “green economy” is developing new business opportunities for urban youth. Both paths are being organized by diverse, energetic leaders as evidenced by such local groups as Movement Generation, Planting Justice, the HUB-Oakland and the SF School District’s Schoolyard Greening Program (Education Outside). Quoting Zakiya Harris, Earthseed Consulting, an essential goal is “to move young people of color from the margins to the epicenter of the environmental movement.” Zakiya charts “a new model of engagement at the intersections of social enterprise, technology, environmental awareness and sustainable solutions.” This CCA course will be joining forces with one or more of these organizations to define and accomplish hands-on projects utilizing your creative skill sets. Before launching into community-based work, we will study the basic history of the environmental justice movement and also practice the essentials of collaborative work. The course will also feature guest presenters, field trips, videos and targeted reading assignments. Please be prepared for energetic engagement! ENGAGE at CCA courses partner students with organizations to identify and address a specific need, allowing students to apply critical, creative problem-solving toward real-world resolutions. ENGAGE is a program of the Center for Art and Public Life.