Growing More Than a Garden: Victorville Day Program Celebrates Community Partnership

On May 21, the People’s Care Victorville Day Program was honored during the Community Garden Anniversary Re-Opening Celebration at the Victorville Senior Center. This event recognized the hard work, dedication, and community spirit demonstrated by the many individuals who have helped maintain and grow the community garden over the years.

The Victorville Senior Center presented several participants with Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of their commitment to the garden and their positive impact on the community. Their efforts helped create a welcoming and thriving space that brings people together, promotes healthy living, and fosters meaningful connections across generations.

Through their volunteer efforts, our individuals are helping enrich the lives of local seniors while helping them build skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. The garden has become a place where friendships are formed, stories are shared, and community members come together to support one another.

One of the most meaningful moments of the celebration was the recognition of “Netta’s Room,” a donated storage shed purchased by Program Manager Lala Jones with the support of People’s Care. The shed provides a secure and organized space for gardening tools and supplies, ensuring the continued success of the project for years to come.

The shed holds special significance because it honors the dream of Netta, a senior community member who envisioned having a proper storage space for the garden. Although Netta is no longer able to be as involved as she once was due to health challenges, her vision lives on through this beautiful addition to the garden. It is a privilege for People’s Care to partner with the Victorville Senior Center in helping fulfill a dream that means so much to the community.

The impact of this partnership extends well beyond the garden. In addition to supporting garden operations, People’s Care participants have begun volunteering at the Senior Center by assisting with janitorial services and helping maintain community spaces. These opportunities allow our people to give back, develop valuable vocational and life skills, and take an active role in their community.

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue expanding this partnership. Plans are already underway to increase involvement through arts and crafts activities, social engagement opportunities, and other meaningful programs that bring together People’s Care participants and local seniors. These shared experiences help foster inclusion, build relationships, and create opportunities for everyone involved to learn from one another.

The Community Garden continues to serve as a powerful example of inclusion in action. It provides opportunities for People’s Care individuals to contribute their talents, engage in meaningful volunteer work, and make lasting connections with others. At the same time, it supports local seniors and preserves a shared community space that promotes wellness, education, and friendship.

We are incredibly proud of the individuals from our Victorville Day Program for their dedication and service. Their hard work reminds us that when people come together with a shared purpose, amazing things can grow.

Thank you to the Victorville Senior Center, Program Manager Lala Jones, our community partners, volunteers, and everyone who continues to support this special project. Together, we are growing more than a garden; we’re growing community, purpose, and opportunity.