Doing what you love is great but when doing what you love can benefit someone else, it becomes even better! '=
Sherrie Bowe, a Master Gardener, was actively involved in the Rochester LINK program. LINK is a program that "strives to transition at-risk and homeless youths, ages 16-21, into independent adults," says Barb Johnson, an organizer and volunteer for the fair.
LINK offers activities for these youths to be involved in, creating a community of individuals with similar situations. "The program provides case management services, life-skills groups, peer support groups and a transitional housing program," notes Johnson.
Johnson says that Bowe had an idea to combine her "passion for gardening and an opportunity to raise money for a well-needed service in our community." So the Garden Fair was born.
The fair draws a crowd anywhere between 400 to 600 people and has around 30 vendors selling garden art, plants and other garden-related products. There are two morning seminars, on-site food and a kid’s activity. "People really seem to enjoy the event," says Johnson, "since they can purchase new garden items, have a bite to eat and learn new gardening tips and trends."
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There is also a garage sale at the event, with both new and gently used gardening items.
The third annual Garden Fair takes place May 30 from 9am-3pm at the History Center of Olmsted County. Admission is a non-perishable food item, paper product or cleaning supply, which will be used to stock the pantry for homeless youths in Rochester.
For more information, or to donate items to the garage sale,
contact Barb Johnson at 206-8053 or see their Facebook page .
