Hey there, neighbors! Sorry we’re late but we are here now with our monthly update. We’ll keep this one short and sweet for ya because I think we’re all ready to unplug for the holiday weekend. Let’s get right into it!

Picnics, public parks, and politics…oh my! Last month we collaborated with a few other locals who are passionate about helping out more in their community. The Garden House offered up some free sandwiches and snacks to our neighbors, and set up our pop-up closet which was all put to good use. This was a smaller event, but we always find it to be gratifying work if even just one person is able to get something out of it. Also present was a local activist group known as Project Scramble Alley 2.0. They are seeking to raise awareness of and support for the preservation of a beloved local park.

We also partnered with Mona Petro who is currently running for Hamilton County Commissioner of District 1. Mona is someone who exemplifies what it means to lean in at the table as she has shown up to support the community and The Garden House on numerous occasions, and she’s never afraid to offer a hand or a piece of wisdom. She’s got an energy that we think our sleepy little town could use.

We are super excited about this next event! On July 25th, you can find us hosting a free community cookout for anyone that can come. At present, we have 3 full backpacks that have been donated and will be raffling them off at the event. To enter the raffle, you can visit our Facebook page and look for the flyer with the backpack on it. Just follow those instructions and you are in!

As for the cookout, our board members will handle the burgers and hot dogs but we are encouraging folks to bring some sides. We encourage a potluck style at every event. Now this doesn’t just have to mean you need to bring a dish. Maybe you have some extra pantry items you don’t need or clothes to get rid of. You may even possess a skill or trade that could be helpful for some of our neighbors in their time of need. Whatever it may be, we will find a space for you to feel comfortable leaning in and helping do the good work. Below you will find the link to this event where you can RSVP and let us know if you’re bringing anything!

In the future this is going to be a space to explore more about what it means to be a better villager. A more intentional neighbor. Someone who leans in and helps where they can. But for now, we are wiped and the vault is empty. Tune in next month for a full segment.

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