It's hard not to be impressed by the poise and confidence of 15-year-old Chasity Nuñez. The upcoming sophomore at South High School is a star student and she is very involved in her community. This past summer, Nuñez participated in the YouthWorks Program and, for the second year in a row she held employment at YouthGROW Community farm in Worcester.

The program, which takes place in the Main South neighborhood of Worcester, is an urban agriculture youth employment and empowerment program. Nuñez immediately became interested in the opportunity after friends who had taken part of the YouthGROW Program, informed her about their experiences.

"I've known about YouthGROW for quite some time, I have many friends who had been a part of the program and they insisted that I join. Once I became old enough to apply, I immediately submitted an application. I was ecstatic when I found out I got the job."

Nuñez goes on to say the program was more than what she expected. The experiences and the friendships she has made have been invaluable.

"This experience really has taught me the true meaning of teamwork. This year I was elected Youth Leader and, I along with my fellow coworker's have learned how to be more patient, responsible, and flexible to other peoples needs. Working on the farm really teaches a person how to be selfless."

The wise 15 year old also said her favorite part of the job was learning about healthy foods.

"Because I got to spend my time on the farm this summer, I learned a lot about healthy food choices. Now I am very health conscious and I know more about what foods I should and should not be eating. I especially enjoyed helping prepare the food we took on our field trips. Now I know how to make a few simple healthy recipes."

It's safe to say that Nuñez truly appreciates her time and experience at the YouthGROW Community farm in Worcester. She insists that other youths look into the program. The teen who aspires to enter a career in law after she graduates high school, said she will be looking forward to returning to the farm next year.

"I cannot wait to go back next summer. I excited to see what new vegetation we will be growing for 2012."