Sustaining the Program

Carmel Middle School is unique in the support the program receives. They are fortunate enough to have a paid Garden Coordinator as well as a dedicated Development Director.

How does the program keep going?

Since 2002, CMS has had a paid Project Manager and Development Director, Ellen Fondiler, to raise money for the ongoing habitat program, the garden and the expansion project—building a new state-of-the-art Green classroom. With contributions from foundations and individuals, Fondiler raises on average about $500,000 per year.

Funding sources

Carmel Middle School is fortunate in having strong school district and community support.
They receive support from foundation grants, individual gifts, in-kind donations, and special events.
Earthbound Farms, largest CA organic farm producer, is located nearby and donates materials, advice and time to the Carmel Middle School garden project.
A local foundation, the Chapman Foundation provides a major portion of their operating expenses.
They receive major grants from such well known foundations as the Gates Foundation, Packard Foundation, Chez Panisse Foundation
Partnerships with community businesses and with the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea are an intrinsic part of their program.

Fundraising from the garden

When the season is right, they sell cut flowers after school to parents and staff.
They’ve developed a partnership with local restaurants. They provide a salad mix, heirloom tomatoes, fava beans, corn, beets and chard. The restaurant features the name of the school on the menu. The revenue is put back into general operating funds.

What all this pays for

Tanja Roost, a paid Garden Manager and Program Coordinator.
Jane Atkins, the Nursery and Restoration Manager. Tina and Jane work closely with teachers and community partners to integrate the organic garden and continually expand the program.
A part-time paid intern from the Monterey Institute of International Studies who helps with maintenance, harvesting, and transportation of produce to a local restaurant.