What began in 2011 as a simple idea — enrich classroom learning through hands-on gardening activities — has grown exponentially and reaped a harvest beyond imagination.

Today, Ground Works Connect has an expansive vision focused on building agricultural literacy and informed, engaged citizenship within each student participating in our programs.

Our Mission

With an integrated approach, Ground Works Connect incorporates interactive computer activities, youth summer camps, and teaching gardens to deliver hands-on lessons in STEAM education, agricultural literacy and student leadership.

Admin Staff

Cindy A. Heidelberger

Executive Director

Board of Directors

Bjorn Nelson
President

Joel Corlew
Larson Manufacturing
Treasurer

Walt Bones
Hexad Farms
Former SD Secretary of Agriculture

Kris Denevan
Sanford Health

Cory Hughes
First PREMIER Bank

Kelsey Rounds
Aver McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

Sylvia Wolters
Pipestone Holdings

Heidi Zwinger
Summit Contracting Inc.

David Skaggs
AgroVive Biologicals

Don Ryswyk
Sioux Falls Career and Technical Education

Steve Sikorski
Minnehaha Master Gardeners