The Green Team lies at the heart of Groundwork Buffalo’s mission to build a more sustainable, equitable, and vibrant city. This program empowers local youth to become leaders in environmental action—providing them with paid opportunities to transform Buffalo’s neighborhoods through hands-on green projects.
From planting trees and restoring parks to maintaining urban gardens and revitalizing community spaces, Green Team members play a vital role in making our city healthier and more beautiful. Along the way, they gain practical job experience, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Current Projects
University at Buffalo North Campus Garden
Downtown City Hall Lots
2024 Accomplishments
Empowering Youth, Transforming Buffalo, and Growing a Greener Future
Groundwork Buffalo has had an inspiring and impactful year, continuing our mission to create sustainable urban environments across Greater Buffalo through community collaboration and youth empowerment.
At the heart of our success is the Green Team—a passionate group of young leaders from the Mayor Summer Youth Program—who have worked tirelessly to bring new life to our city through hands-on environmental projects.
Delavan Grider Community Center
The Green Team revitalized the gardens at Delavan Grider, planting new flowers, vegetables, and community beds. This transformation not only beautifies the space but also provides fresh produce for local residents.
Our youth team restored native plants and wildlife habitats, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Agape Church Gardens
Working alongside Agape Church, the team added 6 new garden beds and repaired 12 existing ones. With fresh soil, mulch, and a vibrant mix of produce and flowers, this space now thrives as a hub for community connection and food growth.
Canisius East & West Lots
Once vacant, these lots have been transformed into lush green spaces filled with gardens and native plantings—turning unused land into living community assets.
Home Beneath Our Feet Farm (East Aurora)
The team supported sustainable agriculture by maintaining crops and assisting with farm operations, helping build a resilient, self-sustaining local food system.
Jefferson Northland Gardens
In preparation for the East Side Garden Walk, the Green Team refreshed and enhanced the gardens, ensuring the space was welcoming, colorful, and ready for community visitors.