DETROIT – There’s something special about gardening. From planting seeds to watching them grow, and even right up to the joy of harvesting, gardening offers more than just fresh produce. It provides a sense of therapy and calm that can significantly impact people’s lives.
At the Clubhouse for the Common Good in Southfield, lunchtime is a community affair where all hands are on deck. The Unit Coordinator, Molisia Young, leads a group of members in daily culinary activities, offering opportunities to chop vegetables, cook, and grill meat. But the story goes deeper than cooking.
Much of the food used in their meals is grown right outside the center in their new vegetable garden. This garden is a central part of the mission at Clubhouse for the Common Good, a day center run by Gesher Human Services. The center provides evidence-based programming for community members living with serious mental health disorders.
Members have been cultivating the garden as a therapeutic outlet.
“My goal is to create horticultural and culinary therapeutic experiences for our members here,” Young explained. “To also have a space for our members to have an outlet.”
The garden is not only a place for therapy but also for learning life-changing skills. Danielle Smigielski, a member, shared her joy in growing tomato plants and the variety of tomatoes they harvest—from cherry to oval to burpee tomatoes.
Paul Blatt, CEO of Gesher Human Services, said the staff has noticed positive changes since the garden’s introduction, including fewer hospital visits.
”We’re seeing behaviors that are just positive for folks. A calmer environment for people. Just really being a part of community is the most important piece,” Blatt added.
From garden to café, some of the harvest is shared daily, bringing fresh vegetables into meals enjoyed by all. The experience is both fun and rewarding for everyone involved.
Gesher Human Services welcomes volunteers to join in supporting this meaningful work. For more information, visit here.