Renfrew Reflections

Reflections from Retiring Community Garden Chair

The Renfrew Community Garden (RCG) first burst into bloom in the spring of 2017, the result of four years of dreaming, planning, digging, and collaborating with the Renfrew Community Association and The City of Calgary. But the seed of the idea was planted much earlier – on a sunny afternoon in 2012. “Heike and I were hanging around, chatting, and enjoying the beautiful summer day in front of the community hall. Out of the blue, we agreed to work together to start the RCG! And so, we did!” recalls Lisa Mulder, Chair of the Renfrew Community Garden.

Since then, Lisa, with the support of so many gardeners and volunteers, has been running the group, juggling everything from business administration to ecological advising to good old-fashioned groundskeeping. Volunteers have stepped in over the years, too – some to dig and plant, others to help with administrative tasks, writing, mini-projects, or even social roles that keep the community connected. “It’s awesome to have members who can be responsible for memberships and registration or coordinating composting. In gardening there is always a lot to do, and helpers are always welcome!”

The group gathers in two ways. First, there are the “business meetings,” where gardeners chat about their favourite topic – gardening, naturally – while enjoying a beverage at the RCA Pub. These meetings are equal parts planning session and social hangout, with plenty of brainstorming and problem-solving sprinkled in. Then there are the “Garden Therapy Sessions,” where members roll up their sleeves and show the garden some love. Together, they tend the grounds, garden beds, trees, and bushes to keep the space thriving.

One of Lisa’s greatest joys is watching small children dart into the bushes to pick berries, or seeing neighbours pause for a quiet moment in this little oasis away from the city’s bustle. “It’s when I think back to these times that I feel like the goals that Heike and I had when we first imagined the Renfrew Community Garden are truly fulfilled.”

Of course, not everything is rosy. The biggest frustration is theft from members’ raised beds. Lisa gently reminds everyone that these beds belong to the gardeners who pay for and care for them. Fortunately, there are still plenty of shared spaces – like the in-ground beds, trees, and bushes – that are open for the whole community to enjoy. More information can be found at https://renfrewcommunitygarden.wordpress.com.

Now, Lisa is ready to pass the trowel. “After 15 years of managing the RCG, it’s time for me to retire,” she says. “Volunteering with your local community garden is such a great way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours and friends.”

If you are interested in volunteering for the community garden, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

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