Tiger Ventures students in the horticulture program partnered with the Broome County Correctional Facility Garden by donating starter plants they had grown and cared for throughout the school year. Students planted seeds, monitored growth, maintained the greenhouse and garden spaces, and prepared a variety of crops including peppers, arugula, and other vegetables for donation.
Sheriff Fred Akshar visited Tiger Ventures at Linnaeus W. West School in Endicott to learn more about the program’s hands-on approach to education and community involvement. During the visit, students and staff guided Sheriff Akshar through the school’s facilities, sharing information about the food pantry, clothing closet, labs, gym, and custom-built garden spaces. Students also explained how the horticulture program teaches responsibility, teamwork, and real-world skills while giving back to the community.
At the conclusion of the tour, students presented Sheriff Akshar with the plants they had 
cultivated for the correctional facility garden.
“We’re so grateful to continue adding more and more valuable community partners in all our efforts to build a stronger, safer Broome County community,” Sheriff Akshar said.
Tiger Ventures was proud to support the correctional facility garden while giving students the opportunity to see how their work can make a positive impact beyond the classroom.
