GOLUB CORPORATION

In 1964, Golub Corporation approached 4-H Youth Development programs in Albany, Rensselaer, Schenectady and Schoharie Counties to work jointly in providing about 4,000 youth with a great opportunity. Youth in grades 3-12 from the participating counties would learn how to propagate vegetables, experiment in vegetable production, practice record keeping, accept responsibility and experience the business side of agriculture.

The Golub Corporation proposal stated that they would supply youth with seeds and plants, marketing supplies, a warehouse training session and recognition on completion of the program. Jointly, Golub and the Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations developed a plan for the program. Youth would be required to fill out an application, which would include a plan of the garden, and a choice of which Price Chopper store would market the produce. Applications for the program were to be filed out and handed in by February. The applications would be available through Cornell Cooperative Extension in the participating counties. Golub Corporation would purchase up to $500.00 per growing season. (The average amount earned in 2002 was $90.00 per grower.)

Volunteer area leaders provided by Cornell Cooperative Extensions, support gardeners on a day-to-day basis with encouragement, marketing questions and growing tips. Cornell Cooperative Extension staff provides overall program organization, training to area leaders and participating youth, and assistance in marketing produce. Volunteer Master Gardeners make personal visits to gardens, providing technical support and encouragement.

The commitment that Golub made and continues to make over 39 years, to youth development in the Capital District, is far beyond financial. Youths have demonstrated leadership and decision-making skills by planning and planting a vegetable garden with the positive support form trained caring adult volunteers. They have been provided with opportunities to practice life skills such as, planning/organizing, goal setting, critical thinking, problem solving, learning to learn, teamwork and responsibility.