Community inclusion and sustainability go hand in hand, and Extend-A-Family Kingston (EAFK) is proving just how powerful that connection can be. By providing opportunities for individuals of all abilities to engage in meaningful, therapeutic activities, EAFK is making a lasting impact—one plant at a time.
Through initiatives like the Hydroponic GrowAbility Project, EAFK is not only enriching the lives of its participants but also supporting local food security and sustainable agriculture in Kingston. Their work showcases how nature-based programs can create real social change, making them a model for other organizations looking to integrate therapeutic horticulture into their services.
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Photos from Extend-A-Family Kingston’s Hydroponic GrowAbility Project
Extend-A-Family Kingston: Growing a More Inclusive Future
Extend-A-Family Kingston (EAFK) is a non-profit dedicated to fostering inclusion, independence, and community engagement for people of all abilities. Their innovative programs provide hands-on learning experiences that enhance social inclusion, skill development, and overall well-being.
One of their standout initiatives, the Hydroponic GrowAbility Project, is a therapeutic horticulture program designed to empower individuals while promoting sustainability.
“Through programs like the Hydroponic GrowAbility Project, participants engage in hands-on gardening activities that provide sensory stimulation, enhance fine and gross motor skills, and promote mindfulness and relaxation,” says Ian Cholmondeley, Programs Manager at EAFK.
Located in the Dunya hydroponic greenhouse pod, the GrowAbility Project allows participants to cultivate fresh produce year-round, regardless of Kingston’s cold winters. Using sustainable hydroponic technology, EAFK significantly reduces water usage, eliminates harmful pesticides, and produces nutritious food that is donated to the local community and organizations focused on food security.
But this initiative is about more than just fresh produce—it’s about people. Participants of all abilities are actively involved in every aspect of hydroponic farming, from planting seeds and monitoring growth to harvesting and distributing food. “Individuals develop valuable life skills while building confidence and fostering a sense of pride in their contributions,” Cholmondeley explains.
Through this therapeutic horticulture approach, EAFK not only helps individuals gain confidence and independence but also instills a deep sense of environmental stewardship and teamwork.
Photos from Extend-A-Family Kingston’s Hydroponic GrowAbility Project
Why Your Organization Should Invest in Therapeutic Horticulture Training
As seen in Extend-A-Family Kingston’s Hydroponic GrowAbility Project, integrating therapeutic horticulture into your organization’s programs can create meaningful opportunities for engagement, skill development, and well-being. By incorporating nature-based activities, you foster a more dynamic, fulfilling, and inclusive environment for both participants and staff.
“Our team at Extend-A-Family Kingston is excited to have several staff members participating in our Intro to Therapeutic Horticulture training. This training will equip them with the knowledge and skills to incorporate horticulture-based activities into our programs, promoting well-being, engagement, and skill development for participants.
Staff members from both our adult and youth programs will be taking part, including program coordinators and frontline support workers, who will use this training to enhance our community garden, hydroponic growing systems, and nature-based programming. By integrating therapeutic horticulture into our activities, we aim to create meaningful, hands-on experiences that foster connection, learning, and personal growth for everyone involved.” – Ian Cholmondeley
Benefits for Individuals
One of the most immediate advantages of therapeutic horticulture is the boost in client satisfaction. Hands-on gardening activities provide purpose and enjoyment, contributing to mental and physical well-being. Whether through hydroponic farming, sensory gardens, or small-scale planting projects, these activities offer a rewarding and therapeutic experience for participants.
Benefits for Staff
For staff, therapeutic horticulture training enhances professional skills and job satisfaction. Employees who feel confident in leading engaging activities are more motivated and fulfilled in their roles. Gardening-based programs also encourage social connection, reducing isolation and creating a sense of teamwork and community among participants.
Benefits for Organizations
Beyond individual benefits, offering evidence-based horticulture activities helps organizations stand out. Whether you operate a non-profit, healthcare facility, senior care home, or community program, therapeutic gardening can differentiate your services and attract new participants.
From a practical standpoint, gardening is cost-effective and sustainable. Programs can utilize natural, affordable resources, making them budget-friendly while maximizing impact. Additionally, nature-based activities benefit staff well-being, reducing stress and burnout and fostering a more positive work environment.
By investing in therapeutic horticulture training, your organization can create a healthier, more engaging, and supportive community where both staff and participants thrive.
Bringing Therapeutic Horticulture to Your Organization
If your organization is looking to create similar life-changing programs, Root in Nature can help. Our virtual training and resources equip activity and therapy teams with the skills needed to facilitate therapeutic horticulture sessions effectively.
Common Challenges That Organizations Face
- Social isolation & loneliness: 1 in 4 older adults experience social isolation, which has severe health consequences (World Health Organization, 2024).
- Limited activity options: Residents in care homes “do nothing” 65% of the time (Tak et al., 2015).
- Staff engagement & training gaps: Less than 1/3 of employees feel engaged and energized at work (Gartner, 2023).
- Lack of nature connection: People spend 90% of their time indoors, missing out on the mental and physical health benefits of nature (Parks Canada, 2014).
How Root in Nature Helps
- We connect people with plants and nature—indoors or outdoors
- We help you enhance staff skills and engagement through a self-paced virtual course
- Improve quality of life and reduce stress using evidence-based therapeutic horticulture techniques
- We provide ongoing resources, activities & live support
Extend-A-Family Kingston is proving how therapeutic horticulture transforms lives—and your organization can, too. Whether you’re a non-profit, healthcare facility, senior care home, or community program, Root in Nature’s training equips your team with everything needed to start delivering impactful horticultural programs.
If you’re ready to create a more inclusive, engaging, and nature-connected experience for your participants, let’s get started!