Meet Ed and Matty – The Heroes in your Local Garden!
On a chilly February day, Ed and Matty arrive at the Red Hook Community Center with their friends from their Day Hab to start working on seed pods for the upcoming spring season. “Who remembers how to make our seed pods?” Kate Davidowich, Program Specialist asks the group.
Ed confirms to Mrs. Davidowich and quickly gathers the tools needed. “You’re in charge today, Ed!” Kate proclaims.
Ed begins to rally the group and gives directions step by step. “It can’t be too mushy – It has to be firm.” Ed tells his peers as they mix seeds, flour, and garden dirt together. Kate clarifies that Ed is a real go getter and knows how to take charge but also motivate others to as well.
Matty listens and helps to relay the information to everyone. “Not too much” Matty says as he packs just enough of the seed mixture into the silicone trays.
Like Ed, Matty has the same upbeat and take charge spirit when it comes to producing these seed pods. “It makes me happy [to see the gardens grow]” Matty says. He went on to emphasize if seeing the gardens grow makes him happy, it must make others happy. Matty sees that as a driving force to come in and help the Organic Outcomes program.
Created in 2016, Anderson Center for Autism’s Organic Outcomes program was designed to teach valuable skills to individuals within our programs and help our community. Inga McKay, Senior Program Director, who helped start the seed pod program, focused on making the process accessible, but with an emphasis on helping the local ecosystem and using sustainable materials.
The Anderson Community Heroes like Ed and Matty care deeply about the work they do and the outcomes it has on their town.
In addition to seed pods, the program helps operate community gardens which include growing zucchini, kale, beets, tomatoes, pumpkin, herbs, and more! This helps individuals enrolled in our programs gain valuable skills and health benefits from being outdoors, planting, and harvesting.
You too can be an Anderson Community Hero!
Consider a donation with us today to help us fund programs like these to better our community. Together, we can make the world a better place!