The Net Resource Foundation is looking for volunteers to plant vegetables as part of their “Spring into Action” event. Participants are needed to de-weed six garden beds and plant vegetables like tomatoes, green peppers, corn, and okra. The nonprofit is also asking for donated soil, but equipment and seeds will be provided. The event will take place on Saturday, at 9 a.m. at 4001 Hughes Ave. Interested volunteers should sign up online at thenetresourcefoundation.org.
The Net Resource Foundation has provided open access to fresh produce in the Alton Park community since 2018.
The garden is maintained with the help of the students in the nonprofit’s youth group. Executive Director Raquetta Dotley, said the garden is a vital community asset and an important learning tool. She said, “It teaches the children about watering, harvesting, and how to use that food for cooking meals. It also reemphasizes the great asset they have in this community and helps them see revitalization in their own neighborhood. It’s a real community garden, anyone can get something to eat, and the neighborhood is welcome to eat, participate in watering and upkeep, too.”
The “Spring into Action” event is part of the Hughes Project, an open space that will enhance the community by offering an outdoor performance venue, tree-covered paths for reflection and meditation, and a location for summer and after-school programs. The price tag of the new Alton Park project is estimated to be $52,000. The Net Resource Foundation is actively seeking donations and volunteers for this project. If you are an individual or business looking to sponsor a bench as part of the project, eight benches need sponsorships, with each bench costing $700.