Our Mission is Prevention Our mission is to prevent/reduce the occurrence of unhealthy coping, mental and physical illness for individuals of all ages, walks of life (socioeconomic status), and geographical locations through inclusive cultural understanding and change.
Through equity of access to resources (such as stigma-free mental health/behavioral health, STEAM Education, cooking & nutritional education) our research not only shows a reduction in substance abuse and misuse and patterns of unhealthy coping mechanisms of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation; it also shows a reduction in chronic illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Why Horticulture?
Between environmental stressors affecting personal health, issues caused by the overuse of technology, and problems with food scarcity/quality, the average person in today’s society has a lot to worry about. Gardening, generally and therapeutic horticulture specifically, act as an accessible way for individuals of all ages to address their concerns and reconnect with nature, themselves, and their communities.