Because of our wonderful volunteers, The Cabbage Patch has been getting some spring cleaning done in preparation for summer programs! We teach Patch participants to respect and take care of their space, and it is important that we provide an environment that they can be proud of.
Have you heard the word Ubuntu? This Zulu/Xhosa word is an African philosophy for respect for humanity. Simply, it captures the concept: “I am human because you are human.” It recognizes that each person is part of a community. Ubuntu is at the heart of the United Methodist Women’s Day of Service Assembly, which took place this year on April 24. Volunteers donated their time to deep clean and organize several of The Cabbage Patch’s spaces, including the gym, kitchen and art room. Additionally, when the children of The Cabbage Patch head off to summer camps, they will be welcomed with clean, sparkling vans thanks to the United Methodist Women, and they will know that they are worthy of the best facilities we can provide. Volunteers were: Susan Williams (Anchorage, Alaska), Paulina Webber (Little Rock, Arkansas), Diane Hassell (Amelia, Virginia), Jo Webber (Little Rock, Arkansas), Ellen McNulty (Pine Bluff, Arkansas), Suzanne Tinka (Clarkston, Michigan), Michele Weston (Grand Blanc, Michigan) Azaviea Brown (Orangeburg, South Carolina), Sue Reisinger (Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania), Linda Hughes (Utica, New York), Phyllis Liebler (Brown City, Michigan), Amanda Heeren (Ames, Iowa), Kera Peterson.
Have you been planning your garden yet? We certainly have here at The Cabbage Patch! Thanks to volunteers from Barret Traditional Middle School, the beds are weeded, tilled and ready for our Seed to Table program. Spring planting will take place as soon as the danger of frost has passed, and select Cabbage Patch participants will learn the joy of raising their own produce and cooking a nutritious meal from the garden. One of the most beloved Patch programs, Seed to Table instills nutrition awareness in an under-served demographic and provides children with a lifelong lesson in healthy eating.
There are many volunteer opportunities available at The Cabbage Patch all year round. Click here to find out how you can help make a difference in the lives of those we serve!