The Alameda Point Collaborative's Growing Youth Project will host a Summer Food Institute aimed at teaching local young people about issues in our food and health environments.

The institute, open to all Alameda students attending high school for the 2008-09 school year, will run from Monday, July 28, through Friday, Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The institute is free. Those who attend and complete theprogram plus two evening meetings throughout the school year to check in and discuss their efforts will receive a $100 education award for their hard work.

Participants will get their hands dirty, learn about junk food marketing, develop a plan for food justice in Alameda, learn about and cook healthy foods, and build relationships with other Alameda youths. Other activities include beekeeping, teambuilding and a collaborative art project.

This camp is youth-run with adult facilitation and all activities take place at the Alameda Point Collaborative Community Center or Community Garden. There is no prerequisite to participate, but youth interested in these topics or with experience as leaders in their schools are highly encouraged to apply. There are 20 spots available; to reserve a space, contact Kate Casale at 898-7828 or