The North Branch Arts Community Garden
6431 N. Kinzua, Chicago IL 60646
Transforming a deserted trash laden alley next to the Edgebook Metra station parking lot into a clean, green and educational community garden began as a dream in 2008. It became a reality when the City of Chicago designated the Creativo Community Garden in 2010. By connecting children and families with nature, the Community Garden teaches a neighborhood how to reverse and reduce environmental damage through community gardening in addition to beautifying downtown Edgebrook.
The garden supports Chicago's Climate Action Plan through gardening, environmental education, and community events. Children will grow organic food to donate to local homeless shelters and the flowers will be donated to local nursing homes. The garden is certified as a Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom and open to the community for families to compost, garden, and connect with nature.
Accomplishments
The garden supports Chicago's Climate Action Plan through gardening, environmental education, and community events. Children will grow organic food to donate to local homeless shelters and the flowers will be donated to local nursing homes. The garden is certified as a Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom and open to the community for families to compost, garden, and connect with nature.
Accomplishments
- Cleaned out vacant alley (2008)
- Removed 22 weed trees and stumps along fence line (2009)
- Installed iron gate (2010)
- Hoeer Schaudt Landscape architects donate Concept Design (2010)
- Wine Auction Fundraiser (2010)
- Earned Nature Explore Foundation Grant (2011)
- Earned City of Chicago's Greencorps Community Garden certification (2011)
- Certified as first Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom in Chicago (2011)
- Enhance concept design
- Develop programs to support further developments
- Research recycle station
- Build a stage for events
- Community planting day and other activities