Mind Grown Gardens

Mission Statement:

At Mind Grown, we dedicate ourselves to creating a nurturing environment that enriches the lives of those living with memory loss, while also supporting their caregivers and the wider community. Our inclusive and accessible space provides opportunities for gentle exercise, social interaction, and meaningful engagement in a safe and stimulating setting. Through our community garden, we foster a sense of belonging and purpose among visitors of all ages. With frequent activities and events, we celebrate our community’s vibrant spirit, promoting joy, creativity, and lifelong learning.

Featuring bright, colorful elements and sensory-rich experiences, our garden stimulates the senses and evokes memories, inviting exploration year-round. Whether seeking solace, connection, or inspiration, the gardens serve as a sanctuary for caregivers and families. Together, we cultivate a space of compassion, empowerment, and hope, where every season brings new opportunities for growth and connection.

Vision Statement:

Mind Grown aspires to establish a welcoming environment—a third space—for individuals grappling with memory loss, regardless of its origin. Our aim is to raise awareness about the preventive benefits of diverse activities in mitigating the risk of these illnesses. Additionally, we endeavor to showcase the capabilities of individuals with dementia and illustrate the progression of this condition, alongside recommending activities suitable for each stage. Through our programming and thoughtful design, we seek to engage people from all walks of life in our mission and vision. Our ultimate aspiration is for the ethos of Mind Grown to inspire the creation of similar sites worldwide, offering outdoor spaces and programming for those affected by dementia in every major city.

Design Objectives:

1. Winding colored paths extends throughout the space, inviting endless exploration and encouraging physical activity, while minimizing the risk of visitors becoming disoriented or lost.

2. An expansive indoor greenhouse featuring a diverse selection of herbs alongside versatile community seating.

3. A vibrant community garden with a multitude of plots for cultivation.

4. An spacious shade shelter equipped with both built-in and movable seating, ideal for hosting activities, events, or enjoying a relaxed lunch.

5. A sizable fire pit supplemented with extra heating elements to facilitate winter use.

Program Goals:

1. Create a dedicated environment tailored to individuals impacted by dementia, Alzheimer’s, or other forms of memory-related conditions, along with their caregivers.

2. Create a space that stimulates all five senses to evoke positive memories, trigger emotional responses, and promote sensory stimulation.

3. Provide year-round activation and seasonal interest.

4. Create a secure haven for individuals experiencing memory loss or related conditions.

5. Facilitate diverse programming elements that bridge generational gaps and offer a space inclusive for all, while maintaining a focus on dementia patients.