ERC Breaks Ground on Greenhouse and Gardens
http://kuaf.com/content/elizabeth-richardson-center-breaks-ground-greenhouse-and-garden
ERC broke ground on a new greenhouse project on Tuesday, September 20, 2011, at 9:00 am. The greenhouse is being built to provide a unique opportunity for adults with disabilities to participate actively in all phases of gardening. The new greenhouse will be located directly behind the ERC Life Skills building at 1763 Ford Avenue in Springdale. It is also conveniently adjacent to the three 10-bed Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF) operated by ERC.
With shovels: Lance Eads, Vice President for Economic Development with the Springdale Chamber of Commerce; Skip Murphy, Murphy Construction; John Buck, ERC Executive Director; Katie, ERC Client;
Amy Bates, ERC Board Secretary; Jenna Johnston, ERC Board Vice President; Larry Templeton, ERC Board President; James Maginot, ERC Case Manager; and representatives from the Springdale Chamber of Commerce.
Due in large part to a grant received from the Lennox Foundation, the 1000 square foot greenhouse will have raised beds both inside and immediately outside the building along with wheelchair accessible concrete paths allowing access from Life Skills and the ICF Homes.
Participants will learn about soil preparation, nutrients necessary for growth, the planting process, nurturing healthy plants, identification of weeds, control of pests and other barriers to growth and the harvesting process. Gardening can be linked to improvements in physical, mental and social well-being, including:
-increases in muscular strength and body mechanics
-improved coordination and balance
-increased autonomy, independence and self-esteem
-increased observation skills and attention span
-providing choices and ability to use problem solving skills
-commitment to a living thing
-cooperation and team-building skills
-dealing with success and failure
The greenhouse will be complete by the beginning of 2012 and will be ready for the first planting in the spring.
