Planting Seeds of Community: A Gardening Initiative Blooms at Bob Ward Apartment Program 

Aug 12, 2025

At the heart of CMHA Calgary’s Supportive Living programming is the belief that when clients are empowered, incredible things can grow, sometimes quite literally. This spring, a resident in the Bob Ward Apartment Program took a powerful step toward building both community and connection by launching a Gardening Group for fellow tenants. 

After securing support from the Onward Homes building manager, the resident approached Supportive Living Apartment staff to help bring the vision to life. With encouragement and practical support from program coordinators, she created a poster to promote the group and began rallying her neighbours. 

The turnout at the first meeting was a promising sign of things to come. The resident confidently led a discussion about gardening techniques and healthy growing practices. The group began planning how they would share responsibilities such as planting, watering, and weeding, as well as where various vegetables would be planted around the building. 

For Supportive Living staff, the experience was inspiring. Not only did they see the resident take on a leadership role, they also witnessed a vibrant example of how clients thrive when given the space to lead and collaborate. 

As the garden continues to grow through the summer, staff will continue to support the client in her leadership role and help navigate any challenges that arise. This initiative reflects the everyday impact of supportive housing and the power of community-based leadership, showing how small ideas like planting a garden can sow the seeds of connection, wellness, and pride. 
 
If you’ve been inspired by the Bob Ward Gardening Group, consider how you might help grow connection in your own community. Whether by volunteering, donating gardening supplies, or simply sharing your skills and time. Together, we can nurture more spaces where people feel empowered to lead, collaborate, and flourish.