As 2025 draws to a close, it feels like the perfect moment to pause, take a breath, and appreciate what an amazing year it has been in our community garden.
Back in January, Meredith entrusted Damian with the role of Community Garden Facilitator. Damian may still be an “average gardener,” but he is incredibly blessed by the support, generosity, and warmth this garden receives from so many wonderful people.
Damian mentioned that his right-hand man, Jason, has been an absolute superstar all year. Jason’s growth in skill, confidence, and leadership has been incredible to watch. He truly is the heart and soul of the garden, and the whole team adores him.
Damian also expressed how grateful he is for current volunteers Thomas and Sumitra, who bring dedication, positivity, and good humour to every visit. And of course, Meredith continues to be our steady source of gardening wisdom, always ready with expert advice and encouragement.
Throughout the year, many hands have helped shape the space we love. Dora brought infectious enthusiasm during her time with us, Donna’s legendary weeding skills are still deeply missed following her retirement due to injury, and Jeannette still pops in regularly to lend a hand and enjoy a chat.
The garden truly thrives because of all these generous, warm-hearted people.
Growing Community, Growing Connection
If there is one thing Damian is proud to have brought to the garden this year, it’s a deeper sense of community.
LNH garden beds are now overflowing with herbs, vegetables, and plants lovingly grown by local residents.
The true highlight of the year for Damian has been building meaningful partnerships with the Northern School for Autism and My Choice Support Network. He shared that “working alongside Pong and Salote has been one of the greatest honours of my career.”
Their genuine care for their clients is profound, and collaborating with them has allowed the garden to become a safe, joyful, and empowering space for their participants. Through this partnership, we’ve been able to welcome individuals who bring curiosity, warmth, and courage and watching their confidence grow has been one of the most rewarding experiences of 2025.
Seeing their clients grow in confidence, skills, independence, and social connection has been a privilege. Watching them explore the garden, try new things, and shine in their own unique ways has been one of the most beautiful parts of 2025.
Words From Our Partners
From Pong – Northern School for Autism
Lalor Neighbourhood House and Damian’s gardening program has supported our students to participate in and be a part of their local community. Damian has been highly accommodating and supportive of our students and their needs to participate successfully.
All of our students have shown noticeable progress in their confidence to participate in activities in different settings. They have also shown that they are comfortable working and interacting with every staff member at LNH.
We would like to thank Damian, Jason and LNH for accommodating us and being a part of our students’ growth this year.
From Salote – My Choice Support Network
Damian and Lalor Neighbourhood House have played an invaluable role in supporting our high-needs participants through both our volunteer clean-up visits and our new gardening program.
Their approach has been warm, inclusive, and genuinely person-centred. Damian consistently goes out of his way to make our group feel welcome, preparing the space, providing the right tools, and adapting tasks so each participant can engage safely and meaningfully.
Because of this supportive environment, we have already seen noticeable progress. Participants who are usually hesitant have begun approaching activities with more confidence, exploring the garden beds, completing small tasks independently, and showing pride in their contributions. Others have developed stronger social skills, teamwork, and routine-building.These may seem like small steps, but for our participants they represent significant growth in engagement, confidence, and wellbeing.
The partnership with Lalor NH, supported by Damian’s patience and dedication, has truly enriched the experiences we can offer. Their commitment to inclusion has created a space where our participants feel respected, valued, and empowered to succeed.
Looking Ahead
Thank you to every person who has brought joy, care, and community spirit to the garden this year. It has been an unforgettable 2025, and I’m so excited for what we will continue to grow – together – in 2026.