In this section, you will find a sampling of community collaborations in which I have taken a leadership role.
Secretary of the Board @ Green Thumbs Growing Kids
My relationship with Green Thumbs Growing Kids (GTGK) began in 2019 when I completed a Child & Youth Care Practice internship there. I wasn’t expecting a brief academic experience to change my life, but during my internship it became increasingly clear that GTGK and I were completely values-aligned. Working closely with founder Sunday Harrison left me excited at the end of my workday, and hopeful for the future of underprivileged urban kids — a group with whom I identify strongly.
As my internship came to an end, I was able to secure a summer job as Garden Program Coordinator, which extended and deepened my relationship with GTGK. In 2021, I joined the volunteer Board of Directors. As of spring 2024, I now serve as Secretary of the Board, and chair of the Fundraising & Communications committee.
During my time with GTGK, I have worked with many incredible individuals on a diverse range of projects. Recently, I served as a project lead in creating the new GTGK Colouring Book, What Gardeners Know, a fun educational tool for children ages 6-14.
Nature Art @ The Avenue Road Arts School
While teaching at the Avenue Road Arts School, it became clear to me that the natural world was my niche. Launching an original course called Nature Art, I encouraged my students to engage more deeply with the world around them. In Nature Art students learned about historical and contemporary artists who were inspired by nature, worked directly with natural materials, and began learning basic plant identification skills.
We explored traditional drawing, painting, and sculptural techniques, but also experimented with nontraditional materials and methods (such as microwaves, orange peels, or freshly brewed tea). And, students began to consider how to be an environmentally friendly artist - working with biodegradable materials, learning where their materials come from, and considering local wildlife, waste, and water systems.
World Cleanup Day @ Davenport Neighbourhood Association
In 2019, I reached out to my neighbours via the Davenport Neighbourhood Association. Turns out, it wasn’t just me who felt frustrated with illegal dumping and littering in our community.
After hearing about World Cleanup Day, I decided to organize a local cleanup, and the community response was phenomenal!
We did it again in 2020, and despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had an even bigger turnout in our second year.