Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging Receives ServeOhio Grant to Install Raised Garden Beds

Volunteer project will allow residents of Margaret Wagner Apartments to garden and socialize

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 21, 2023) - As part of ServeOhio’s Day of Service, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging has received funding to install three raised garden beds at Margaret Wagner Apartments for its residents to grow closer to nature and the community.

The grant is one of 22 awards provided by ServeOhio, the Governor-appointed commission on service and volunteerism. Each grant coincides with a volunteer project taking place on or around June 24, the official Day of Service, involving more than 500 volunteers in 11 Ohio cities. Benjamin Rose is looking for volunteers who are available on Friday, June 23 from 9-11 a.m. to help assemble and assist with the initial planting alongside residents of Margaret Wagner Apartments.

“In addition to providing a unique outdoor space for our residents to form bonds and connect with nature, this project is just one of many exciting renovations about to take place at Margaret Wagner Apartments,” says Leila Washington, building manager.

Since 2003, Margaret Wagner Apartments have been providing adults age 62+ with secure, affordable and supportive housing in the Greater Cleveland area. The building offers several community areas for socialization, just one of the many ways Benjamin Rose programs and services facilitate opportunities for older adults to remain active and engaged. The raised garden beds will serve as an additional community space where residents can tend to plants together and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Volunteers must be able to lift 30 pounds, stoop, kneel and perform basic gardening duties. Those interested in volunteering can contact rwhelan@benrose.org or call 216-373-1932 for more information.

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About Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging: Founded in 1908, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging is a Cleveland-based nonprofit whose mission is to support caregivers and empower all people to age well through research, consumer-responsive services and client advocacy. Our work is accomplished by deepening the understanding of their evolving needs in a changing society; developing and delivering innovative, high-quality solutions; and promoting effective public policies. For more information, visit benrose.org.