Therapeutic Horticulture
THE HEALING ELEMENTS OF NATURE
Cape Fear Botanical Garden provides individuals of all abilities a meaningful way to connect to the natural world through programs that are tailored to the group’s goals. Participants learn new ways to engage in exercise, manage stress, communicate and build self-confidence while enjoying the peacefulness of the Garden’s tranquil setting. Accessible raised beds, containers, adaptable tools and resources are provided to enhance each experience. Many community organizations participate in the benefits of indoor and outdoor therapeutic horticulture programs where they learn new skills, explore our sensory-filled Garden, and give back to the community through creative art and garden projects. We currently share our programs with the Vision Resource Center, Service Source of NC, LIFE St Joseph of the Pines, Cape Fear Valley Cancer Centers, Harmony Senior Services-Hope Mills, Fayetteville Veteran’s Affairs and Community Patriot Arts Center.
HOPE GROWS SERIES
Inspirational programs offered year round created specifically for wounded, injured or transitioning veterans of the Wounded Warrior Project. These classes offer gardening practices through adaptable hands-on activities designed to heal, inspire and restore. Students learn to create raised beds, support structures and garden art; grow, tend and nurture plants; prepare healthy foods and share experiences and inspirations through garden walks and journaling. Students also give back to the community by harvesting produce to be donated to Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeastern North Carolina and volunteering to help with Garden events. Class experiences are linked to life skills and provide students the time to grow, learn and appreciate the therapeutic benefits of working in the Garden.Our “Vets in the Garden Day” program annually offers four one-day experiences to volunteer, share, and learn more! To participate, Wounded Warrior Project Alumni should contact the Wounded Warrior Project – Fayetteville.
WARRIOR, SPOUSE AND FAMILY RESET PROGRAMS
Our partnership with the USO of North Carolina enables several hundred military members, their spouses and families an opportunity to participate in therapeutic horticulture and nature-based outdoor activities in the Garden. The “Reset” Programs focus on providing comprehensive health, nutrition, and fitness information to build resiliency and develop coping techniques for those facing the challenges and pressures of a military lifestyle. Through the Garden’s restorative benefits, participants engage in activities to help reduce everyday stress, encourage peer interaction, and re-energize for healthier living. Plenty of time is available to relax and reflect around the fire pit or enjoy a peaceful walk in the forest.To participate, visit the USO of NC program website.
THANK YOU!
We are grateful for the generosity of our donors and partners who help make these programs possible:
- Cornelia “Neill” Bullock Wilkins Charitable Endowment Fund- Seniors and Education of Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc.
- Fayetteville Technical Community College, Wesley A. Meredith Horticulture Education Center
- North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Cumberland County Center
- United Service Organizations (USO) of North Carolina
- Wounded Warrior Project of Fayetteville
- National Garden Bureau Growing for Futures Therapeutic Garden Grant
- Home Instead Senior Care of Fayetteville
For more information about these Garden programs and future dates, please contact Mallory Schroer, Therapeutic Horticulture Program Manager. If you are interested in additional information about Horticultural Therapy, please visit American Horticultural Therapy Association.