Carp Ridge Learning Centre Wild Brunch

Come celebrate the incredible work of youth and families from our community at the Carp Ridge Learning Centre Wild Brunch!

Since February, youth and their families have been participating in an intergenerational foraging and land-based learning program guided by Dr. Katherine Willow, Naturopathic Doctor at the Carp Ridge EcoWellness Centre. Together, they have learned how to safely identify, sustainably harvest, and prepare wild edible plants found in the Carp area. Alongside this, they’ve explored how connecting to the land supports personal and community health, as well as environmental stewardship.

The Wild Brunch features a beautifully crafted meal that incorporates ingredients foraged by the youth and their families, paired with seasonal offerings from local farms — a true celebration of the land and community that nourishes us.

This innovative program was developed through a collaboration between Carp Ridge Learning Centre and R.I.S.E. Academy, a local educational organization that helps youth earn high school credits through hands-on, meaningful learning experiences.

Through the program:

• Youth earned secondary school credits while developing real-world skills in ecology, sustainability, food preparation, and leadership.
• Families were invited to participate alongside their youth, fostering intergenerational learning and stronger family and community connections.
• Participants deepened their understanding of the land, the importance of sustainable harvesting, and the cultural significance of foraging traditions.

R.I.S.E. provided educational guidance and accreditation, ensuring that the youth’s efforts translated into formal academic achievement while aligning with Ontario curriculum standards.

• Foraged & Local Meal: Enjoy a delicious, thoughtfully prepared menu featuring wild-foraged ingredients and fresh produce from Carp-area farms.
• Online Auction: Bid on unique, locally inspired items and experiences, with all proceeds supporting the continuation of this transformative program.
• Raffles: Win great prizes generously donated by our community partners.
• Live Music: Soak in the atmosphere with soulful performances from talented local musicians.

The Carp Ridge Learning Centre is a registered charity based in Carp, Ontario. Since 1998, we’ve been committed to building a healthy and sustainable local community where individuals and families can thrive.

Our mission is rooted in:

• Connecting to the Land: Reconnecting people to nature and traditional knowledge.
• Natural Health: Promoting holistic approaches to personal and community wellness.
• Collaboration: Working together to create resilient, supportive community connections.

Through programs and events like this, we foster learning, healing, and sustainability — together.

Your attendance and support make it possible for us to continue offering life-changing programs that engage youth and families with the land and each other.

Can’t attend? Donations of any amount are deeply appreciated and go directly toward sustaining and expanding our programs.

Come hungry, come inspired, and come ready to celebrate the land and the people who care for it — with good food, good music, and good company.

We look forward to seeing you at the Wild Brunch!

Host or Publisher R.I.S.E. (Reach Inspire Soar Empower) Academy