The Adventure Begins!

You know that feeling when you start a project and think, “This’ll be a breeze!” and then reality hits you square in the face with a corrugated metal panel? Yeah, that was us today at the Eastpointe Community Garden! 😂

Our dedicated crew of garden volunteers gathered mid-afternoon to kickstart one of our most ambitious projects yet – a 12′ x 20′ shelter that’s going to transform our community space! Half greenhouse (wishful thinking), half gathering spot, and 100% awesome… once we figure out how to peel those pesky protective films off the metal roofing panels!

Despite the unexpected battle with adhesive (why is it always the little things that get ya?), we made INCREDIBLE progress! The foundation is taking shape, the framework is halfway up, and our spirits are high (even if our backs are sore).

What We’ve Accomplished So Far:

• Framework assembly for our 12′ x 20′ shelter – halfway there!
• Half of the film peeled off of the paneling
• Lots of laughs, a few creative new words for stubborn plastic film, and community bonding!
• Oh, we also learned that Kat is a fantastic project manager – thanks Kat 😘🙌

The Big Push – WE NEED YOU TOMORROW!

Here’s where YOU come in, garden friends! Tomorrow (Saturday, April 19) at 11 AM, we’re gathering for our weekly garden party with a special mission – SHELTER COMPLETION DAY!

We could really use some extra hands for:

• Finishing the metal panel installation (bring your patience and fingernails!)
• Digging a few holes
• Mixing and pouring concrete for secure footings
• Getting some of our our spring plants into the ground
• Regular garden maintenance

No experience necessary! Whether you’re a construction pro or can barely tell a hammer from a cucumber, we’ve got tasks for every skill level.

Bring:

• Work gloves if you have them (we have extras)
• Water bottle
• Your wonderful self
• A friend! (The more the merrier)

We’ll provide snacks, tools, guidance, and guaranteed good vibes. This shelter is going to be a game-changer for our community gatherings, educational workshops, and providing shade during those brutal Michigan summer days.

Why This Matters

This shelter isn’t just about protection from the elements (though that’s a pretty sweet bonus). It’s about creating a semi-permanent gathering space where our community can come together in all seasons. It’s about making our garden more accessible and comfortable for everyone. And honestly, it’s about building something awesome together!

Our harvest numbers have grown every year (from 654 pounds of donated produce in 2022 to over 1,600 pounds in 2024!), and this shelter will help us extend our community impact even further.

Will you be part of this garden milestone? Come join us tomorrow – even if just for an hour! Every hand makes a difference, and we promise you’ll leave with dirt under your nails, new friends, and that special satisfaction that only comes from building something meaningful together.

See you in the garden!

#UrbanSeed #EastpointeCommunityGarden #BuildingTogether #GrowingCommunity #ThirdSpace