Growing Stronger mentoring/service program exists to give compassionate support to two distinct groups of women. Firstly, this program provides life skills guidance and vocational training in horticulture and landscaping to women who have recently completed a period of incarceration or a substance abuse rehabilitation program. Secondly, as on-the-job training sites, we provide free landscaping services at the homes of women with physical disabilities due to age, injury or illness. We also help to plant and maintain public garden sites and nonprofit facility gardens thus promoting civic responsibility.
Within the context of a “women helping women” dynamic, we develop truly meaningful mentoring relationships. Women with physical challenges receive care for their landscapes as well as personal encouragement and friendship. At risk young women are given job skills and job placement assistance, helping them to achieve financially stability as they reenter society. The mission of this program is to operate in such a way as to provide needed services that will enhance the quality of life of both groups of women and the local community as landscapes are beautified and lives are enriched.