For weeks over the long snowy winter, Heidi, Linda and many other volunteers worked in Misercordia's greenhouse, Greco Gardens assisting residents with the transplanting of perennial plant material. The unique plant combinations were placed in terra cotta pots that were hand painted by the residents of Misericordia. The hand painted containers and potted perennials graced the center of tables, at the Misericordia Women's Auxiliary Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show, Friday March 4, 2011. The event took place at one of Chicago's prominent landmarks, The Palmer House Hilton.
The terra cotta containers were auctioned at the event, however the plants were returned to Greco Gardens and will be maintained by the residents until late this spring. The centerpieces were thoughtfully crafted using only hardy perennials and ground covers that will ultimately be planted on Misercordia's grounds. With residents of Misercordia and volunteers, James Martin Associates will coordinate the planting of the perennials this Earth Day, April 22, 2011. This date also coincides with the landscape industry's PLANET Day of Service.
At the start of this project Heidi felt she knew all about Misericordia. She knew it as a place that offered care to developmentally disabled and physically challenged folks. However, as she spent time at Misercordia, she "grew" a greater understanding of what Misericordia meant to so many lives. She spent time with volunteers that have loved ones at Misercordia and was enlightened by what a significant value Misericordia holds in the hearts of so many. Heidi learned that Misericordia does not only teach it's residents, but it also has the capacity to teach us all a life lesson or two. Take a moment this spring to smell the roses, or hyacinths, and think about contacting a local charity in your community that could use a helping hand. It definitely has the capacity to grow into a rewarding experience.
James Martin Associates would like to thank our wonderful vendors that supported this project by donating plant material: Midwest Groundcovers, Twixwood Nursery and Wilson Nurseries.
