The Captain Planet Foundation works to support and inspire educators and young people to participate in project-based learning initiatives that address environmental challenges. Through grants and educational programs, the foundation seeks to foster stewardship of the environment and empower youth to become agents of change in their communities.
The Voya Financial, Inc. and Captain Planet Foundation Learning Garden Grant Contest focuses on promoting environmental education, core academic subjects, nature, and nutrition through hands-on learning gardens at elementary schools in eligible metro areas. Aimed at state-accredited elementary schools (grades K-5), this contest seeks nominations for schools to integrate Learning Gardens into their curriculum as a teaching tool rather than an extracurricular activity. Schools with and without existing gardens can apply, but must demonstrate administrative support, space for the garden, and a commitment to incorporating garden-based lessons across grade levels. Winning schools without an existing garden receive a comprehensive garden installation package and educational materials valued at $5,000, while schools with gardens are provided with $500 worth of improvement items, program materials, and teacher training, also valuing each prize at approximately $5,000.