As early as 6:30 a.m., teams from the Joseph P Cory Foundation, The Home Depot Foundation, and South Tech Academy assembled and got straight to work on an incredible garden transformation! The day began with digging out the old soil, roots, weeds, and vermin, clearing the way for a fresh start. Once the ground was leveled, a weed barrier was installed to prepare the area for its exciting new purpose.
Then the building began! Teams worked together to construct 20-foot greenhouse structures to address the ongoing iguana problem, as well as the assembly of durable, virtually indestructible 4-by-8-foot VIGO metal garden beds. With the structures in place, the organic garden beds were filled, and mulch was spread throughout the surrounding area. The project is now awaiting the installation of its irrigation system, which will help keep the garden thriving throughout the year. Students have already been germinating seeds indoors, and nurturing seedlings, for their new home outside.
Of course, a full day of hard work calls for good food and great teamwork! Our volunteers were fed throughout the day, and the energy, enthusiasm, and shared sense of purpose were evident in everything that was accomplished. It was inspiring to see so many people come together, working side by side to build something meaningful that will benefit students for years to come.
But this is about so much more than a garden! We are creating an outdoor classroom and living laboratory where SouthTech Academy students can learn through hands-on experience, explore the growing process, understand food literacy and nutrition, and connect education with the natural world. This is an investment in learning, sustainability, and the future of our young people.
If you are interested in volunteering for projects such as this, becoming a garden sponsor, or would like to donate to educate, contact our foundation.
