By Andi Anderson
A dedicated group of 45 Polk County Master Gardeners has been recognized with the Easterseals Iowa Mark Melton Volunteers of the Year Award for their outstanding work on Camp Cultivate.
This garden initiative, launched in spring 2025 at Camp Sunnyside in Des Moines, has already produced more than 1,500 pounds of fresh food for Easterseals Iowa programs and clients.
Camp Cultivate is a partnership between Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Polk County, the Polk County Master Gardeners, and Easterseals Iowa.
The garden uses horticulture as a tool for education, inclusion, and improved food access. It supports a wide range of Easterseals programs and provides meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Krable Mentzer, chief communications officer at Easterseals Iowa, highlighted the program’s impact, saying, “The impact of these volunteers goes far beyond the nourishment they are providing our Easterseals clients through garden produce. Camp Cultivate provides an opportunity for horticulture therapy, which can be a source of empowerment and joy for our clients.”
The 7,375-square-foot garden supplies produce for childcare, recreation, adult day programs, and community-based clients. It also serves as a hands-on learning environment where individuals gain confidence and practical gardening skills.
The project is supported by the Growing Together Iowa program, funded by USDA SNAP-Ed and Iowa Total Care.
Stephane Harrington, Master Gardener coordinator for Polk County, emphasized the broader mission, noting, “This project is about more than growing food—it’s about growing confidence, independence and community. It’s also a shining example of how Master Gardeners can partner with organizations to benefit local communities and support food security.”
Camp Cultivate includes 26 garden plots with more than 520 plants, a repurposed chicken coop used as a shed, nearly 900 feet of gravel pathways, a 300-foot water system, and a produce washing station. An industrial refrigerator, provided through the ISU Urban Ag Catalyst Grant and donated by Master Gardeners, supports food storage.
Easterseals Iowa supports more than 3,000 Iowans each year by helping individuals with disabilities live independent and fulfilling lives.
The Polk County Master Gardener Program continues to educate residents on sustainable gardening, with food security as a central priority. Through collaboration and service, Camp Cultivate demonstrates how community partnerships can create meaningful change.
Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle