The garden at Greenglade Community Centre recently received a huge overhaul thanks to over a dozen hardworking volunteers and a grant.
In 2012, Panorama’s Elder College program received a federal grant from the New Horizon Grant for seniors.
“Some of the $25,000 grant went to hiring a program assistant and renovating a room into the Elder College lounge and the garden became sort of a major project,” explained Martine King, assistant adult community program coordinator.
Prior to the renovation, a small garden was in place at Greenglade and was used intermittently for summer programming for youth.
Through April and May, dozens of volunteers descended on the plot of land and turned it into raised beds planted with vegetables, fruit trees and native plants.
Now, King said, the revamped garden will provide programming opportunities for all ages.
“It’s a great asset to Greenglade,” she said.
“It will provide space for a new youth programming this summer as well as a space for seniors and other community members to visit who might not have a garden to tend to or enjoy.”
King said the garden adds more to the facility which is already attracting more members of the community each week.
“People from the community have really taken to using Greenglade, and we’re seeing more and more people attending the facility on a regular basis,” she said.
“The fitness and weights drop in programming have been seeing more and more participation as well as Elder College and having the new garden will only increase community involvement. It really is a great little place.”
For more information on programming at Greenglade, visit www.panoramarecreation.ca.
New youth program
A new program for youth interested in gardening will take place at Greenglade in the new garden this summer.
Youth can learn to grow plants organically from a Master Gardener. Experience seeding, bugs, composting, companion planting and more.
Youth will also be able to enjoy offsite garden visits, exciting learning activities and Panorama swims as well. The week will end with a Hawaiian garden event to which parents will be invited.
Please bring a snack, lunch, sunscreen, swim suit and towel each day. Tuesdays and Thursdays drop off and pick up will be at Panorama.