A year-round program of indoor and outdoor opportunity -
a working ever-changing garden project of success since 1971,
offering urban children and families the opportunity to become gardeners and much more!
Currently on the grounds of the
U. S. National Arboretum
3501 New York Avenue, N. E., Washington DC 20002

Mission
Revised in 2004

Using the garden cycle as a tool, the mission of the Washington Youth Garden
at the U. S. National  Arboretum is to inspire children and families to
engage in self-discovery, explore relationships with food and the natural
world and contribute to the health and well being of their communities.

Washington Youth Garden at the National Arboretum

Growing Green Dreams – A Magical Project for Youth and Families

 

            When there is magic, life it so very good. When dreams are realized, it is even better. Last Saturday it was pure magic at the Washington Youth Garden’s Growing Green Dreams site as the Harvest Day Celebration was the big happening at the USNA.  Families, staff, and volunteers gathered for a dream-filled four hours where smiles repeatedly expressed the pleasures of the day.  Chefs of all ages prepared special dishes using fresh vegetables picked from the garden as families worked together to prepare recipes to share on a scrumptious buffet table filled with healthy food.  Many also pulled weeds from their 5’x 5’ plots and gathered produce to take home. Visitors were busy touring the garden while photographers were recording memories too good to miss.  Certificates of recognition for program participation were given along with whimsical rock creatures to the program participants. Laughter could be heard in the squeals of children as they watched a juggler draw them into a joyful presentation.  The rhythm of song as young voices joined in to sing a snappy tune about gardening kept many clapping and swaying to the beat of the music as the guitar strummed in accompaniment.

             Many first time floral designers became enchanted with the idea of creating their own arrangements to brighten the buffet and picnic tables adding beauty to the feast of well- prepared food. Jo Sellers, B.J. Sullivan and Betty Mosher of the NCAGC gave wings to the young designers who proudly placed their work on the tables.  The FONA Youth Garden staff deserves congratulations for planning this beautiful day for all.

 

            The National Capital Area Garden Clubs has been generously supporting the Growing Green Dreams project since 2003. The program needs many volunteers and is always ready to receive financial help from believers who value youth gardening.

 

You are invited to:

An Ice Cream Social – September 8, 2007

Participate in the Dig in Your Heels 5k Run/ Walk – November 4, 2007

 

Do contact:

Betty Mosher, NCAGC Growing Green Dream Chairman

703-569-4382

 

and/or send contributions (checks to NCA/WYG) to Carole Butler, Executive Secretary

1508 Auburn Avenue,

Rockville, MD 20850-1120