We asked Collie...
What is your program all about?
Heroic Gardens is a Virtual Garden based in Philadelphia created for Veterans, whose reach extends as far as Alaska and Hawaii. The program goals are Socialization: meeting new people that are like them but may live in other parts of the country, helping housebound Veterans not feel isolated.
Why did you choose to develop this program or how did you get into this population?
Our organization has been serving the Veteran community since 2018. We started this program during COVID with our local Veterans. When we were able to see each other in person we put the program on hold. In 2022, we decided to try it again and put the word out through our social media channels and at the VA. Today we have over 81 Veterans enrolled from 20 states.
What is innovative about your program?
We are consistent. This group meets the first Sunday evening of every month. Two weeks before that, we have about 10-15 volunteers that get together for a packing party. They pack up the kits to be sent via the US Mail. We combine our sessions with guest speakers that offer relevant information to self-care. Currently, Veterans enrolled are growing vegetables with seeds we sent to them. Once they are grown and harvested, each Veteran has been asked to write/make a recipe. This group wants to have a cookbook!
What kinds of activities do you do?
We are seasonal, so in colder months we might send ingredients to make a chai tea, or tie dye bandanas using organic materials for dyes (think beets, turmeric, blueberries). We have also sent grow lights, succulents, and pothos plants out. It’s a chance for everyone to have a group experience together and talk about how things grow in their regions.
How is your program evaluated?
We evaluate based on referral and on feedback from the Veterans. Recently, we engaged a doctoral student from Rutgers to survey the current group participating. We also ask for feedback via a peer lead. We have a Navy Veteran who assists the HT and truly is the program administrator. He communicates with the group throughout the month via email.
How can I get more information about your program?
https://heroicgardens.org/virtualgarden
Anything else you'd like to mention?
“Happiness held is the seed. Happiness shared is the flower.” John Harrington
What We’ve Learned:
Isolation and loneliness are still very real in this world. It is important for individuals to find the places and spaces where they belong. For us, we provide a consistent, safe and welcoming place where Veterans can meet other Veterans who are interested in learning about plants OR are already involved with plants but are looking for additional social outlets. We have successfully created a national family of plant enthusiasts, who all just happen to be Veterans.
This program has grown over the last year by word of mouth. We do no real advertising except via social media.
.jpg)
