Perth County Youth Build More Than Farm Stands—They Build Community Pride

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PERTH COUNTY, ON –Ten vibrant new farm stands are now up across Perth County— but these aren’t just structures to grab fresh produce. They are powerful symbols of community spirit, youth creativity, and rural pride, built from the ground up by the hands of local high school students.

The Discover More Flavour Farm Stand Project is a shining example of what can happen when community, creativity, and collaboration come together. This unique initiative invited high school shop students build farm stands that celebrate what makes Perth County special. The result? A fleet of functional farm stands, each one a testament to the energy, talent, and imagination of our youth.

The stands are currently displayed at participating locations this summer as part of the broader Discover More Flavour campaign, helping boost local business visibility and enrich visitor experiences

Why this project matters:

• Empowers youth with real-world experience in skilled trades and artistic expression
• Strengthens the connection between young people and their communities
• Promotes local agriculture and farm-based entrepreneurship
• Deepens community pride by celebrating the voices and visions of our youth

“This project reflects the very best of Perth County—our vibrant rural economy, our thriving youth, and the strong partnerships that bring ideas like this to life. These farm stands are more than structures—they are symbols of community collaboration, creativity, and pride.”
– Warden Doug Kellum, County of Perth

“It’s incredible to see our youth engaged and empowered through hands-on learning. Projects like this highlight the value and importance of skilled trades; while at the same time it helps to ignite passion, instill confidence, and fuel a strong sense of purpose in our future leaders.”
– Deputy Warden Dean Trentowsky, County of Perth

“Education is most impactful when it connects students to their communities in meaningful, authentic ways. Through this initiative, our students have developed practical skills, expressed their creativity, and contributed to something lasting and visible across Perth County. We are proud to be part of this partnership that celebrates youth and showcases the powerful role of skilled trades in building vibrant communities.”
– Dr. Graham Shantz, Director of Education, Avon Maitland District School Board

Perth County remains committed to empowering the next generation, uplifting local culture, and creating inspiring partnerships that support our rural economy.

Let these farm stands be a beacon of what’s possible when we celebrate our youth, support our farmers, and work together to build something truly special.

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Perth County is a vibrant upper-tier municipality located in Southwestern Ontario and is home to a regional population of 81,565 residents. This rural region is comprised of 4 lower-tier member municipalities. To find out more information about our services, visit www.perthcounty.ca or follow us on Facebook and X.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ricky Zhao, Tourism Officer
Phone: 519-301-5611
Email: rzhao@perthcounty.ca

Attachments

2025-06-27 - NEWS RELEASE - Perth County Youth Build More Than Farm Stands -They Build Community Pride