girl scouts of the colonial coastGirl Scout Ambassador Morgan of Troop 13 recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award by completing a project she titled, “The Ability Garden,” where she created indoor and outdoor learning features, themed around gardening, for the residents of St. Mary’s Home. St. Mary’s Home, which is located in Norfolk, Virginia, provides a place for children and young adults, newborn through 21 years of age, to live, play, and go to school while also receiving complex, professional, around-the-clock care from medical staff. Morgan wanted to provide a creative and accessible learning experience for the residents of St. Mary’s Home, so she incorporated her love of gardening with a mission of serving others!
She tackled this issue by building, painting and planting four ADA approved raised garden beds and a sensory play box for mobile residents to explore and learn new skills on the grounds of St. Mary’s Home. The Girl Scout also created an indoor succulent garden, built on a rolling cart, for residents who cannot get outdoors to also experience the joys of a garden.
“Gardening typically requires fine motor skills, the ability to get down on the ground and knowledge of plants, herbs, and tools,” Morgan said. “Often, people with special needs are excluded from participating in certain experiences. I wanted to specifically address the issue of gardening and how adapting to the residents’ needs can improve their physical, social, and mental well-being. From being involved in groups and community activities, to an opportunity to learn about healthy foods, gardening is about improving the enjoyment of life.”
Congratulations, Morgan, and thank you for making your community, and the world, a better place!
