The work of a community gardener is never done but don’t fear there are resources available. The best one for our area is the GreenNet Green Pages . Of course, the Green Map is also available so get out there and network with your neighboring gardeners. Springtime is a great time to get excited for the upcoming season and the Green and Growing Fair is an opportunity to see what materials and support are available and learn about current practices in an educational workshop. Material support is also available through GreenNet’s MiniGrants
Another source of support is the municipal services. Most of these are available through 311 or click here for a list of city services.
The members of GreenNet each offer community gardening support in their own ways. Please visit their websites and locations to determine which resources are appropriate for your site. Resources available include; plants, community development support, public art, small business and farmers market support, educational workshops and classes, labor and volunteers, and years of community garden experience.
One of the major tools towards sustaining a community garden is building a network of supporters, neighbors and gardeners. Building this network will not only make the garden function better it will make it more fun! While community building can be a daunting task, remember we do not need to re-invent the wheel! Hopefully these helpful links will provide you with tools to create a sustainable garden and community.
Links to guidelines for grant seekers, green pages/resource page
and link to ACGA docs on sustainability:
www.communitygarden.org/starting.php
www.communitygarden.org/whatgood.php
Openlands Tools for CG
University of Illinois Community Development Toolbox:
Research from University of Illinois on the Benefits of Greening:
Resources on the benefits of Urban Forestry:
