CELEBRATION GARDEN VOLUNTEERING

Join us on Tuesdays at 8:30 AM in the Celebration Garden to harvest fresh produce for local food pantries. All ages and abilities are welcome! Volunteering here not only supports those in need but also fosters community spirit and connection with nature. Help make a difference and enjoy the rewarding experience of giving back.

If you have questions about volunteering, contact Heidi Lathrop at garden@stmtts.org.

The 2024 Garden Volunteering season begins Tuesday, May 28th at 8:30 AM

ABOUT THE CELEBRATION GARDEN

Welcome to St. Matthew's Celebration Garden, a flourishing oasis in Sterling, Virginia, where fresh, organic produce and vibrant flowers are cultivated to spread the love of God throughout the community.

What sets us apart is our dedication to giving back. The heart of our garden beats with collaboration, led by Heidi Lathrop and supported by community volunteers as well as Boy and Girl Scout groups. These volunteer groups actively participate in gardening lessons, planting guidance, and maintenance during the summer months. The harvest from these efforts consistently benefits the LINK Against Hunger food pantry every week throughout the growing season.

Join us in cultivating a sense of community and giving back to those in need. Explore our gallery and history below to witness the transformative journey of our garden, from its humble beginnings to the vibrant, giving space it is today.

To learn more or inquire about volunteering, contact Heidi at garden@stmtts.org. Let's know and share God's love through this beautiful garden ministry.

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CELEBRATION GARDEN HISTORY

2013 Garden Transformation

Established in 2013, our journey began with the transformation of a dying rose garden into a thriving space for vegetables and flowers.

2015 Raised Bed Revolution

Faced with challenges like weeds and poor drainage in 2015, we decided to build raised beds, setting the stage for the expansion of the garden in 2016.

2016 Hot Sauce & Expansion

The birth of Celebration Garden Hot Sauce became the catalyst, prompting us to secure funding and plan the expansion to grow organic produce for food pantries.

2016 Garden Hot Sauce is Born_edited_edi

2017 Scout Collaboration Begins

In 2017, with seed money in hand, we collaborated with Scouts to construct the garden, kickstarting a series of Eagle Projects a well as Girl Scout Take Action Projects. VIEW HERE

2021 Mosaic & Little Free Library

In 2021, a new chapter unfolded with the installation of a Little Free Library, a beautiful hand-crafted mosaic by Mylene Nyam, and a pollinator habitat (GS Troop 2654), showcasing the diverse ecological impact of our garden.

2022 Pergola Installation

Our beautiful pergola was constructed and donated by Solid Work Construction providing some shade and a variety of seating options for the garden including swings and a hammock.

Pergola_ Construction donated by Solid Work Contracting, April 30, 2022

Pergola_ Construction donated by Solid Work Contracting, April 30, 2022 2

2023 Flourishing Flower Ministry

In 2023, we added a cut flower ministry to the garden, growing and donating over 1,500 pounds of fresh, organic produce, and distributing 247 flower bouquets.