Hi! My name is Talia Arovas, and I am a 17-year-old high school student. I was an infant when my parents and siblings started volunteering at a neighborhood garden that had just broken ground, and I am pretty sure I held a trowel before I held a crayon. We continued to work in the garden each year and off-season, and over the years we've cultivated a wide variety of produce, ranging from fruits and vegetables to beautiful flowers. The core values of our garden revolve around sustainability, environmental stewardship, and, most importantly, building a sense of community.

Our garden not only provides a space for us to connect with nature and our neighbors, but it also serves as a resource for those in need. For many years, my family and I have been donating fresh produce to local food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. By providing healthy, nourishing food to those who may not have access to it otherwise, we aim to help create opportunities for fresh, wholesome meals for individuals and families facing food insecurity. It is truly fulfilling to know that our garden has a positive impact on people in our community.