"GIFE Awards The Garden Project with 2022 Grant"
In Bandon, Oregon, Caroline Bloomfield, a seasoned gardener with a background in English from Southern Maine University, is currently tending to her green thumb. Having gardened in multiple zones across the U.S., Bloomfield brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Meanwhile, in Norcross, Georgia, The GIVE Center's alternative school is making headway in its garden project. This school, which caters to students who require additional support and guidance, has faced challenges but has rallied the community to help.
The GROW garden, which was hit hard by last winter's harsh conditions, has now made a remarkable recovery. A local law firm and an unspecified platform have generously donated to the garden's restoration, while a grant from Trees Atlanta has also contributed to the cause.
The garden now boasts a variety of summer crops, including strawberries, eggplant, bell peppers, jalapenos, several types of tomatoes, lettuce, kale, spinach, mint, basil, and more. Shlawnda Calhoun, an English teacher at the school, leads the garden project, which was initially funded by the Whole Kids Foundation.
The garden project serves as a platform for teaching leadership, resilience, and perseverance, as well as practical gardening skills. Recently, students engaged in a debate about genetically modified crops and the availability of organic foods. One student even suggested using ginger as a natural pesticide, an idea that will be tested with the planting of the autumn garden.
The students at The GIVE Center are not stereotypical troublemakers, but young people in need of guidance and support. Most of them hail from marginalized communities and face various challenges, including trauma and disabilities.
The school, which considers itself a "school of opportunity" with a motto of "whatever it takes" to help students thrive and flourish, lacks traditional support mechanisms like a PTA, booster clubs, or school partners. However, the community's support for the garden project has transformed it into a large community event.
In a different part of the country, Caroline Bloomfield continues to make a difference. As the Manager of Marketing Communications at her unspecified platform since 2019, she is undoubtedly using her skills to promote the importance of gardening and community involvement. Her green thumb and passion for education are undoubtedly making a positive impact.
The Gardens for Growing Community has also provided equipment and opportunities for urban gardening. With the success of these projects, it's clear that the power of community and education can truly make a difference.
