This month, we celebrate Larisa Pearce, Nutrition Educator for Jeff Davis and Calcasieu parishes, whose innovative approach to education has brought fresh energy and meaningful experiences to the SNAP-Ed Nutrition Education Program. Larisa’s work with the Lake Arthur Library Educational Garden has not only taught children about healthy eating but also fostered a sense of community and connection among its young patrons.
The idea for the Lake Arthur Library Educational Garden stemmed from a collaboration between Jeff Davis Parish Library Director, Michael Stanton, and Lake Arthur Branch Manager, Zanetta Lee. Inspired by a similar project, Michael saw the potential to create a garden that would engage children beyond their usual screen time. Zanetta, who observed the challenge of drawing kids away from computer games like Roblox, wanted to offer them real-life, hands-on learning experiences.
Recognizing the potential impact, Michael reached out to Kyndal Comeaux from the LSU Ag Center’s 4-H Club. Soon, a team of passionate partners, including Larisa Pearce, Stephanie Elwood from Southern University Ag Center, and other community leaders, gathered to make the garden a reality. Funding from Southern University SNAP-Ed and a $300 Louisiana 4-H Global Youth Service grant provided the resources to fill three garden beds, and by September 2024, the fall planting began.
On September 16, 2024, Larisa introduced a group of young girls to the idea of making Tropical Green Smoothies. Initially hesitant about adding spinach, all eight girls eventually tried the smoothie – and loved it. “They all said they couldn’t taste the spinach and would make it at home,” Larisa shared. This small victory marked a major step toward healthier eating habits.
The impact didn’t stop there. Later that day, Larisa observed the girls outside the library, laughing, playing instruments, and bonding in a way Zanetta Lee had never seen before. “Do you see that? You did that!” Zanetta exclaimed to Larisa, attributing this newfound camaraderie to the shared gardening and cooking experience. Larisa agreed, feeling proud of fostering such a positive environment.
Larisa’s vision extends beyond this one project. She aims to bring similar educational gardens to other libraries in Jeff Davis Parish and beyond. “Libraries aren’t getting the traction they used to because of the internet,” Larisa noted. “My goal is to get kids off their screens, interacting with each other, getting their hands dirty, and learning to grow and prepare their own food.”
Her passion is summed up in her favorite quote by Patricia Compton:
“Nutrition isn’t just about eating, it’s about learning to live.”
Larisa’s work is a testament to that philosophy. Through her dedication and creativity, she is not only teaching nutrition but also cultivating life skills, community bonds, and a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Congratulations, Larisa, on being this month’s shining star! Your efforts remind us all of the profound impact that hands-on education can have on our communities.
