October 29, 2013

DTAH volunteers in the community

This fall, DTAH had the opportunity to volunteer for Accommodation Information and Support Inc. (AIS) – a local organization who helps people affected by mental health challenges and homelessness get off the streets, have a place to call home and get the help they need. AIS own several properties in Toronto but one in particular fell by the wayside.

DTAH assembled a team of volunteers to help physically improve the front yard of the Riverdale home. Activities included weeding the garden beds, amending and tilling the soil, transplanting and planting new material, trimming overgrown shrubs, adding a few shrubs and ground cover and laying a small paver area for a future bench.

We are happy to report that our work made a huge difference and it was great to see how excited the residents were about their new front yard and how proud they were when talking to neighbours.

We humbly and happily accepted a gracious letter of thanks from AIS excerpted below:

“[…]With your vision, enthusiasm and guidance, you were able to rally your team of volunteers. The front garden received some tender, loving care. The volunteers labored and toiled for over eight hours, moving soil, placing rocks, digging, adding pavers, planting new flowers and climbers. We also appreciated that you were also able to retain some of the plant material from the former garden. The tenants, staff and neighbors watched with anticipation the transformation of the garden as the day progressed. Tenants also seemed to enjoy the day, offering their advice and even watering the garden when it was completed. When the teak bench is installed, they can just relax and enjoy the healing nature of the garden. Congratulations to all the gardeners at DTAH. The garden … is officially the envy of the neighbors!”