Intern Volunteer Day Update: Community Garden Flourishes at Perry Elementary
Earlier this summer, Heaven Hill interns constructed three raised garden beds at Perry Elementary School, creating the foundation for a community garden that will provide fresh produce for students, families, and the surrounding California neighborhood.
The garden is now in full swing, and Perry students are learning how to plant and care for vegetables including Chinese cabbage, arugula, kale, collard greens, and mustard greens, while also utilizing seed-starter trays prepared by interns.
Each semester, 20 to 25 students will participate in the after-school Garden Club, where they’ll take on hands-on projects such as planting seasonal gardens, designing container gardens, and learning sustainable practices like composting and rainwater collection. The program also sparks creativity with activities like crafting plant markers, decorating club uniforms, and even writing songs and stories inspired by nature, all while gaining a deeper understanding of ecosystems and the role of plants in daily life.
This initiative reflects our Spirited Neighbor commitment to being an engaged partner, Thriving Together in the communities where we live and work. By connecting young learners to nature, we’re helping them develop practical skills, environmental awareness, and pride in improving their school and neighborhood.
Thank you to our incredible interns and the Environment and Sustainability team for creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact in their community.
