First Day of Garden Club: Sowing Seeds of Wonder at Mira MonteThe sun was generous, the soil forgiving, and the watermelon—well, it was a sensory symphony.
This last week, Food for Thought of Ojai kicked off our first Garden Club session at Mira Monte Elementary, and the garden came alive with curiosity, laughter, and leaf covered hands. With the help of our incredible team of volunteers, 127 students explored the garden not just as a place to grow food, but as a space to grow respect, connection, and joy.
Gloria led a watermelon taste test that invited students to engage all five senses. The crunch, the color, the scent—each bite became a moment of mindfulness. Dee and Rachel turned cleanup into adventure with a scavenger hunt that had kids spotting garden tools, pulling weeds, and rediscovering forgotten corners of the space. Hillary kept everything humming, guiding compost care and ensuring the rhythm of the day stayed smooth and spirited.
Lastly, there was a Garden Game that reminded us of our shared values:
Respect each other. Respect the garden. Respect yourself.These aren’t just rules—they’re seeds we’re planting in young hearts.
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How You Can Help the Garden GrowFood for Thought of Ojai is powered by volunteers, donations, and the belief that every child deserves access to nature, nourishment, and nurturing community. If you’d like to support our work:
– Volunteer: Join us in the garden! Whether you love compost, crafts, or storytelling, there’s a place for you.
– Donate: Your financial gift helps us provide tools, snacks, curriculum, and care.
– Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends, neighbors, and fellow dreamers.
Together, we’re cultivating more than vegetables—we’re growing belonging.
Learn more and get involved!