09/02/2026
In late 2023, Cornerstone Renter Equity received a City Of Cincinnati Government Safe and Clean Grant, administered by Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, to transform Goose Alley from an overgrown lot into a revitalized garden and farm for residents and youth. Partnering with the Urban Farming Collective (UFC) Food System, Cornerstone also launched "Teach the Grower," an urban agriculture program teaching youth and residents sustainable growing practices and food sovereignty.
Fast forward to 2026: the garden is thriving, employing resident youth gardeners and a certified horticulture resident garden manager, and hosting regular community events. Whether tending fresh produce, caring for animals, or simply sitting in nature, this alley has become a sustainable, positive third space for OTR youth and neighbors alike.
Goose Alley is another example that a cleaner, greener Cincinnati also means a more connected, vibrant one.