“I don’t want to forget that it is our measure by God to take care of our neighbors; It isn’t right to leave it up to the government,” said Orlando Wilson, co-founder of the Community Resource Coalition.
The newly formed Community Resource Coalition (CRC) is comprised of community leaders who are committed to alleviating the impact of present economic conditions on our community.
The CRC has planted the 50-acre community garden, located just of HWY 41 on Millers Ferry Road, to help neighbors in need.
Larry Vickery, Gordon County Chamber of Commerce chairman and Orlando Wilson brought the group together.
“We need to get the message out. Larry Vickery and I came up with the idea after discussing ways to help our community at our church (Belmont Baptist). We came in and got it started so that others can see the scope of what this community garden can provide. We hope that this project will spur other communities into doing this,” said Wilson.
Corn, okra, green beans, squash, tomatoes, peppers, watermelon, cucumbers and more will make it into the hands of the community thanks to the CRC’s initiative.
Seed, land, water, machinery, equipment, tools and time have been donated to the project. But as the fruits of their labor begin to sprout, community volunteers are needed.
“The intent is that anyone and everyone who is willing to put a little work into the garden is more than welcome to harvest the crops when ready,” explained Vickery.
“Volunteers have donated land, many man hours, seed and fertilizer to get the project up and running.”
“The CRC invites church groups, youth groups, clubs and individuals to come out and take part. “Anyone who is interested in gardening, community service or just wants to get out and have a good time socializing and helping others, please come out,” Vickery said.
“We can’t stress it enough that the Community Garden is open to everyone. Orlando went on faith that this would happen and the magnitude of the project is amazing! The ample acreage allows for those who pick to take home for themselves or to deliver to others,” said Trace Vaughn, CRC member.
“What isn’t taken by individuals we hope to have volunteers help us harvest for distribution at the VAC,” he said.
Lori Rosen, Voluntary Action Center executive director is looking forward to the crops coming in.
“I love this mission of the Community Resource Coalition. There’s nothing more neighborly than sharing your garden,” she said.
“We’ll serve as a clearing house for community members to pick up harvested foods. The crops will be distrib-uted through our food bank,” said Rosen.
Volunteer organizations and individuals that would like to participate can come to the VAC for more informa-tion.
“We just want to keep this simple and offer support,” Rosen said.
David Baker, Volunteer coordinator for the garden has been hard at work planting, hoeing and picking.
“There are a lot of people hurting. This community garden is for everyone in our area to enjoy,” Baker said.
“We’d like to encourage everyone in the area to come and be a part of this. It is a good cause that benefits every-one,” he said.
“The cucumbers are ready now, the squash will be ready soon and now that the corn is coming in we really hope that people will come out to harvest and hoe,” stressed Baker.
“When Orlando first mentioned this to me, I knew it was a great idea. This garden is something that is needed and will help us all during these tough times,” said Larry Pratt, Adairsville City manager.
“Mayor King also loved the idea and the City of Adairsville is now actively involved in supporting it,” Pratt added.
Open workdays are scheduled through August 8 on Tuesdays 8-10 a.m., Thursdays 7-9p.m. and Saturdays 8-10 a.m.
Please contact the CRC at 770-608-7452 to volunteer on one or more of the dates.
You may also contact the Voluntary Action Center of Calhoun for distribution as the fruits and vegetables har-vest.
“For this garden to be a success, it is important that the community gets involved in maintaining it, said Wilson.
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