Working together, the girls weeded, mulched, planted flowers, painted a rock, and planned activities in the improved space. The final project included poems, music, prayer, and the release of hundreds of butterflies into the garden. To earn the Silver Award, the highest a Girl Scout cadet can earn, they must complete a project that makes the community a better place.

Similarly, two members of Boy Scout Troop #777 are completing their Eagle Scout projects at Fairhaven. Only six percent of all scouts earn the rank of Eagle Scout, so the projects hold special meaning for the boys.

The first project included the construction of a greenhouse for residents of the newly renovated memory care wing so that they may enjoy growing and tending even when the weather isn’t cooperating. It features a wheelchair accessible door, a full ventilation system, and will contain vertical gardening planters along each side for fruit and vegetable gardening. With the mild winter weather, the greenhouse was fully constructed at the end of January and will be ready to fill in the spring.

The second project, to be completed in May, will be the construction and installation of 14 vertical window planters that will stand directly outside each resident’s large window facing the courtyard. Each resident will have the opportunity to select and plant the flowers of their choice in early spring, while continuing to tend and enjoy the blooms throughout the summer.

Fairhaven and United Church Homes wishes to thank Girl Scout leader Amy Gardner, and cadets Abby Thiel, and Rachael and Hannah Herring, for making the courtyard a beautiful space to enjoy. Many thanks also to Quinten Voorhees and Simon Getz, troop leader Kent Shane, and others involved in the completion of these projects.