April 3, 2023

Jodi Miller Gruhn, our Wholesome Minnesota Director, recently met with students at the Apple Valley Environmental School. Her presentation focused on the impact of diet on the environment. Her main point was that a plant-based diet is better for the planet.

The student Environmental Club is excited to work on getting more plant-based options. They plan to meet with the nutrition director to get that moving. Staff shared: “all involved were enamored with your presentation and are so ready to take some action!”

The students and staff have already invited Jodi back. She will do multiple presentations for the larger student body. They are scheduled for April 20 in honor of Earth Day. Jodi’s visit will include a vegan cooking lab with 11th and 12th graders!

Wholesome Minnesota has also made presentations to other school groups. Jodi met with the Westonka High School Green Team on February 27. The students there were similarly impressed.

Afterwards, students asked for some plant-based options for school meals and got them! Based on their input, the Nutrition Director added a veggie burger on Mondays and vegan chicken nuggets on Wednesdays. For the rest of the year!

Presentations to high school groups continue throughout the year. Stay tuned for more success stories!