Community Corner
Evergreen Park Community Youth Garden Is Back!
EP Youth Department kicks off fourth annual event/program
For the fourth year in the row, the Evergreen Park Youth Department will be opening its Youth Garden, created by and maintained by EP youths and their families.
Their special kickoff day is Wednesday, April 30, from 3:30pm to 5pm, when students are invited to help prepare the garden bed for the actual planting one month later. Students
(grades 5 – 12) who are interested in volunteering for this event are asked to register in advance to (708) 229-3377.
The Planting Day is then scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, from 3:30pm-4:30pm and is open to students and adults.
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A full Youth Garden schedule is posted on the Village website.
Ms. Pyeisha Allen, director of the Youth Department, is excited about the opening of the season. “This program has been so well-received, and the kids love it,” she stated. “Here they have a hands-on opportunity to plant vegetables in our garden, knowing that the vegetables and fruits are not only going to our Village Food Pantry, but used in Youth Events as well. The Garden Program has three purposes: to grow your creativity, see the program through from garden to table, and to sprout your knowledge.”
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On planting day, some tools are provided, although participants are welcome to bring things like gloves, hand shovels, weed diggers and the like. In addition, students can receive learning hours by volunteering to assist with the Youth Garden. All work is done under the guidance of trained gardeners.
“In addition to being a constructive event, it is always fun to have an outdoor program to welcome the summer,” Ms. Pyeisha added.
The Youth Department is no stranger to offering enjoyable opportunities and festive social events. Their monthly “Creative Hour” is a big hit, the Open Gym program is a local favorite and the Youth Center is always full.
“We strive to provide something for all who come through the door.”
The Youth Department is open to students in grades five to twelve. You can keep up to date by following their Facebook page “Evergreen Park Youth Department”, or their Instagram, “epyouthdept”. You can reach the department by phone at (708) 229-3377.
