The idea
We are a safe place away from the urban world around us. Yet we are urban. We are URBAN WILD…a wild walled kitchen garden in the heart of Shepherd’s Bush.
Our projects support the community. The garden is a sanctuary for wildlife and tackles the pressing issue of climate change. We are kind to the environment and to the wildlife and we are kind to each other.
WE WANT TO KEEP OUR GREAT WORK GROWING
Our volunteer projects welcome all. Workshops and training help those who want it and we benefit from the skills of those who have experience on the land.
Our Art in the Garden Project is open to all and we explore many artistic mediums in the outdoor space including mosaic, sketching, crochet, needlework, still life, tool sculpture, bird and bat houses, garden arts and crafts and garden display
£5 buys seeds
£30 volunteer lunches
£40 art materials
£50 wheel barrow
£100 tool storage
£200 garden project for a day
£500 patron of the Art in the Garden Project
£1000 sponsor Harvest Art Exhibition
What we'll deliver
- One corporate volunteering session
- 2 or more volunteer sessions per week for the duration of the growing season
- Install 2 new raised beds
- Install 10-12 small raised beds for individual or family use
- Purchase tools and equipment for volunteers
Why it's a great idea
WE CULTIVATE COMMUNITY
We operate on the ABCD (Asset Based Community Development) Model developed by John McKnight in the 1960s on the South Side of Chicago. We use local people with the skills and knowledge to develop the project.
This means that everything we do is based on the knowledge and expertise of local participants. We harvest the skill base of our local community to empower individuals and give the greatest benefit to all.
WHAT DOES THIS DO?
An opportunity for time in nature which is vital to maintain good mental health.
Maintain a space which otherwise would be left derelict.
Serve people who otherwise are not able to get to a green space.
Keep a safe space for people who feel vulnerable.
Provide encouragement in speaking English through the shared language of nature and gardening.
Improve air quality with trees and abundant vegetation.
Hold a space for the natural wildlife of the area.
Steps to get it done
- Purchasing equipment for volunteers
- Building two new raised beds
- Constructing donated greenhouse
- Implementing volunteer programme
