Green Guru Network

Phoenicia Community Gardens Seeks Steering Committee Members and Gardeners

Monday, 27 August 2012 17:26

Phoenicia Community Gardens is looking for a few more dedicated individuals to help guide the creation of the first community garden in Phoenicia. The only requirement is enthusiasm, good communication skills, and a commitment to cultivating the spirit of community here in the glorious heart of the Catskills.
 
We are also gathering names of community members interested in gardening individual plots and Participate in work parties. We will be meeting on August 29, September 4 and 18, and on October 9 at Mama’s Boy Café in Phoenicia at 6 pm to continue the planning process. We will be growing food collaboratively and sustainably at the grounds of the Phoenicia Elementary School. By becoming part of the steering committee you will be a founding member and share in the tasks and bounty of these gardens. For more information contact Valerie Linet at (845) 242-9821.

We also welcome donations of checks and hand tools and any garden implements or materials. We are especially in need of fencing and hoses.
 
MISSION:
Our mission is to create a community garden in Phoenicia where people of all ages and backgrounds come together in the simple shared experience of growing food.
 
VISION:
Our goal is that Phoenicia Community Gardens will foster a greater sense of community, promote health, and provide nutritious local produce to participants and community members in need. The garden will provide a place of beauty for everyone to enjoy as well as educational opportunities for the community to learn about growing food.
 
• Create a natural, chemical-free community garden in Phoenicia
The garden will provide members of the community a place to grow their own food alongside one another, a portion of which will be donated to those in need and to a local food pantry.
 
The garden will empower participants, create additional food security, and improve health by providing nutritious, fresh produce free from harmful chemicals.
 
• Foster a greater sense of community
 
• Community members will have a unique opportunity to engage with and get to know one another by working side by side in the garden and through garden events such as harvest parties, potlucks, tours, etc. The garden will also provide intergenerational opportunities.
 
• Educate the Community
 
The garden will promote the personal and environmental benefits of chemical-free gardening. It will serve as a model of sustainable growing and self-sufficiency. Community members will have opportunities to learn how to garden sustainably. More experienced gardeners will share their expertise with newer growers and act as informal mentors. The garden will demonstrate the joy and value of growing food by offering “tasting tours” and other garden-based learning opportunities for children as well as adult members of the community.
 
Current Steering Committee members:
Valerie Linet
Gloria Waslyn
Cameron Williams
Kathy Nolan
Adelinda Hyde
Tom Hickey
For more information about Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County’s community programs and events call 845-340-3990 or visit us online atwww.cceulster.org.