S.N.O. Family Foundation

We are excited to announce a collaborative effort between the S.N.O. Family Foundation, Green Haven Project, the University of Miami School of Architecture, and OffTop Design to build a new plant nursery and education space in Overtown, Miami. 

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Overtown, Miami’s second-oldest neighborhood, was once known as the “Harlem of the South,” a thriving cultural hub settled by Black workers who built the city’s railroads and hotels. In its early days, Overtown flourished with a prosperous Black middle class. However, the construction of I-95 through its heart displaced over 15,000 residents, devastating the community. Today, Overtown is experiencing a revival, led by dedicated community stakeholders and developers working to restore its rich history and ensure a vibrant future.

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Green Haven Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating sustainable ecosystems through community gardens in areas known as food deserts. Their mission focuses on educating youth about horticulture, urban gardening, farming, and food forestry. Locally grown food is produced and shared with residents in Overtown at no cost, contributing to a healthier, self-sustained community.

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The new plant nursery and education space is designed by lead architect Demar Matthews of OffTop Design, Madison Brinnon the Assistant Director of Communications and students from the University of Miami School of Architecture. This space will become a vital safe space for horticultural education and community development in Overtown.