Girl Scouts of the USA Troop 4785 Cultivating Community at Wesley United Methodist Church
Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora is at the forefront of community service, thanks to the efforts of Girl Scouts of the USA Troop 4785. The church serves as a hub for not only Troop 4785 but also three other troops in the area, all working together to address the spiritual and practical needs of the community.
Planting Seeds of Compassion Through Urban Gardening
Last fall, an urban garden was established on the church’s east lawn, complete with three raised beds filled with compost. This spring, the Girl Scouts ranging from kindergarten to high school students, put their green thumbs to work, planting a variety of vegetables including jalapenos, yellow squash, tomatoes, watermelons, and green peppers.
The result of their labor is more than just a bountiful harvest. The produce grown in these raised beds is now making its way to those in need through the Aurora Mary Wilkinson Food Pantry. Over 100 pounds of fresh produce were delivered to the pantry last month, providing nutritious options for the community.
A Sustainable Initiative That Grows Community Bonds
The gardening program not only benefits those in need but also fosters a sense of community among the Girl Scouts involved. Led by Scoutmaster Kelly McCleary, the program engages as many as 15 different Scouts, teaching them valuable skills in gardening and giving back to the community.
According to Pastor Tammy Scott, the project has been a great success, bringing together girls of all ages to work towards a common goal. The older girls have taken on leadership roles in watering and harvesting the crops, ensuring the program’s sustainability for years to come.
Empowering Youth to Make a Difference
For the Scouts involved, the gardening project is more than just a way to grow vegetables. It’s a tangible way for them to give back to their community and make a difference in the lives of others. Sixteen-year-old Scout Alaina Nelson shared how the project has been personally meaningful to her, connecting her to her family’s history of gardening and instilling a sense of pride in helping those in need.
As the first year of the gardening project comes to a close, the Girl Scouts of Wesley United Methodist Church are already planning for the next season, eager to continue their mission of cultivating compassion and community through their love of gardening.
