Since 2023, we have made it a priority to grow together.
About Us
Pre Coalition.
From 2021 to 2023, Virginia Rettig, former US Fish and Wildlife Refuge Manager, founded and organized AC Open Spaces. This was a group of federal entities and community members that discussed collaboration on conservation and green space initiatives in Atlantic City
From Idea to Coalition.
The Planning and Development sought to develop a city-wide food cooperative. As a result, Ayana Plummer, cofounder and Atlantic City intern, organized the first Green Coalition meeting in October 2023. Municipal employees, food-focused community organizations, and members of AC Open Spaces to initiate a city-wide effort to address food insecurity toward a full cooperative. Through the coalition meetings, members have been able to integrate their efforts for broader community impacts.
Flourishing.
Since 2023, the GCAC has grown to over 35 organizations and has identified 21 gardens, of which seven are food-producing, in the city. As a result of consistent communication and teamwork, the GCAC successfully hosted 2 Annual Atlantic City Garden Tours and assisted in the writing of urban agriculture policy in Atlantic City.
Our Mission
The Green Coalition of Atlantic City is a working group of urban gardeners, farmers, conservationists, and community activists dedicated to addressing food equity and sovereignty in Atlantic City. This issue impacts community access to fresh, healthy foods and nature.
Our goal, through partnership with the local government, is to create functional, productive gardens and green spaces throughout our community.
We encourage the full participation of local residents, businesses, and civic organizations to revitalize our community.
We invite you to join us in the effort to create a greener, healthier city.
Our Partners
Communities Revolutionizing Open Spaces (C.R.O.P.S.)
Coastal Cousins Heritage Gardens
City of Atlantic City
US Fish and Wildlife
Rutgers Cooperative Extension
4-H Atlantic County
Noyes Art Garage
Northeast Organic Farming Association
Natrual Resource Conservation Service
Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA)
The Nature Conservancy
The Community Food Bank of New Jersey
Inlet CDC
Midtown CDC
Ducktown CDC
Chelsea EDC
Reed’s Farm
The Atlantic City Shade Tree Committee
Jewish Family Services of Atlantic & Cape May County
Hydrangea Trail 2.0
Atlantic City Arts Foundation
Mighty Writers
The Salvation Army
The Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City
Atlantic County Institute of Technology
OUR Garden
Fluffy Face Farm
Cape Atlantic Conservation District
Beat the Daily Grind Cafe
Ventnor No. 7311