Growing the Gardening Ministry

Planning Statement (last updated October 13, 2023):

  1. Define goals. The garden is sponsored by the Gardening Ministry at Foothill Vineyard church in San Dimas. We practice sustainable growing methods and promote personal, social and spiritual growth. (done)

  2. Develop a marketing strategy. This growing the gardening ministry page. (in progress)

    • Festivals (in progress)

      • The church has two major festivals (Spring and Harvest).

      • At the event the garden can be opened to scavenger hunts for plants or items.

      • Advertise a workshop for parents and kids to attend the following Saturday.

  3. Leverage social media platforms. (in progress)

    • Need experts with social media, such as Instagram, Facebook, or X. (done)

    • Instagram is a popular app, especially with younger generations (done)

    • Facebook online app (done)

    • Meetup online app (done)

    • Sent request to join Los Angeles Community Garden Council (done)

    • Yelp online app (done). Reviews were not accepted.

    • Share information on Next Door app - Julia.(done)

  4. Local organization collaboration, such as as schools, environmental groups, neighborhood associations, or community centers. (need volunteers)

  5. Organize workshops and events, such as gardening classes. Next classes (pending)

    • Kids potluck - Jessica (pending)

    • Mocktail night using fruit and vegetables - Jessica (pending)

    • Evening potluck - Jessica (pending)

  6. Media coverage, like local newspapers, radio and TV (need volunteers)

    • Gardening Ministry Commercial for church - Jessica (pending)

  7. Community groups, such as a local food bank or a health-focused organization (pending) - City recreation classes (Jessica)

  8. Local businesses, such as gardening supply stores. (need volunteers)

  9. Welcoming events, such as social gatherings, potluck events, or garden tours (pending)

  10. Communication, such as newsletters or emails with updates, gardening tips, and upcoming events (ongoing)

ChatGPT

I asked ChatGPT to come up with suggestions on how to grow our community garden. The following was the results:

Growing your community gardening group can be an exciting endeavor. Here are some steps you can take to expand your group and attract more participants:

  1. Define your goals: Clearly articulate the purpose and vision of your community gardening group. This will help you attract like-minded individuals who share your interests and objectives.

  2. Develop a marketing strategy: Create a marketing plan to promote your community gardening group. Consider using various channels such as social media, local newsletters, flyers, and community noticeboards. Highlight the benefits of joining, such as learning new gardening skills, fostering a sense of community, and promoting sustainable practices.

  3. Leverage online platforms: Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Nextdoor to reach a wider audience. Create dedicated pages or groups for your community gardening group and regularly share updates, gardening tips, event announcements, and success stories.

  4. Collaborate with local organizations: Partner with local organizations, such as schools, environmental groups, neighborhood associations, or community centers. Collaborating with established entities can help you tap into their existing networks and gain access to potential participants.

  5. Organize workshops and events: Host workshops, seminars, or gardening-related events to engage the community and attract new members. Topics can range from composting and seed saving to plant propagation and organic gardening. Offer hands-on experiences and demonstrations to make it more interactive.

  6. Seek media coverage: Approach local newspapers, radio stations, or TV stations to cover your community gardening group. Share stories about the impact you are making, unique projects, or any community initiatives you are involved in. Media coverage can raise awareness and attract individuals who resonate with your cause.

  7. Collaborate with other community groups: Join forces with other local community groups or organizations with aligned interests. For example, you could partner with a local food bank or a health-focused organization to create joint initiatives that promote healthy eating and community involvement.

  8. Engage with local businesses: Connect with local businesses, such as nurseries, gardening supply stores, or landscape companies. They may be willing to provide support, sponsorships, or discounts to your members. In return, you can promote their services or products within your group.

  9. Create a welcoming environment: Foster a friendly and inclusive atmosphere within your community gardening group. Encourage members to share their experiences, tips, and challenges. Organize social gatherings, potluck events, or garden tours to facilitate bonding and relationship building.

  10. Maintain consistent communication: Regularly communicate with your group members to keep them engaged. Send newsletters or emails with updates, gardening tips, and upcoming events. Provide a platform where members can ask questions, seek advice, or share their own gardening experiences.

Remember that building a community takes time, so be patient and persistent. As your community gardening group grows, encourage existing members to invite their friends and neighbors, and continue to explore new ways to engage and inspire participants.