April Potluck
This months potluck was focused on getting neighbors into gardening. We had great discussions about who was gardening already, who wants to garden, who in the room is an expert and novice gardener, etc. Gardens are one of the outcomes we will use to measure the health and wellness of the neighborhood as a whole.
Planting gardens in neighborhoods can have a wide range of unexpected benefits. Here are a few examples:
Improved air quality: Gardens help to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which can improve the air quality in neighborhoods. This is especially important in urban areas where there is a lot of pollution.
Community building: Gardens provide a space for people to come together and work towards a common goal. This can help to build a sense of community and bring people closer together.
Increased access to healthy food: Gardens can provide fresh, healthy produce to people who may not have easy access to it. This can help to improve the health of people in the neighborhood and reduce food insecurity.
Improved mental health: Gardening has been shown to have a positive effect on mental health. It can reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Increased property values: Well-maintained gardens can help to increase the value of nearby properties. This can be especially beneficial for homeowners who are looking to sell their homes in the future.
Habitat creation: Gardens can provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, insects, and other animals. This can help to promote biodiversity in the neighborhood.
Overall, planting gardens in neighborhoods can have a number of unexpected benefits that go beyond simply providing a beautiful space.
