Cultivating Community: How the Oasis Garden at The Living Legacy Center in Cypress Empowers and Supports Vulnerable Families
Despite the rainy, muddy conditions last Saturday, a dedicated group of volunteers gathered at the Oasis Garden at the Living Legacy Center (LLC) in Cypress. Armed with gardening spades, buckets, and enthusiasm, they spent their morning tending to the garden's needs. Each week, the LLC opens Garden Oasis for a volunteer work day. From 9 AM to noon, participants engage in various gardening tasks , from planting new seedlings to maintaining the garden's walking paths, giving volunteers an opportunity to connect with the earth, each other, and the community.
The LLC, located on Cypress North Houston Road, was established to connect underserved families in the Cypress-Fairbanks area with legal and social resources. Their invaluable work has already supported hundreds in their community, particularly senior citizens, veterans, and individuals with both physical and intellectual disabilities. As a central part of their initiative, Oasis Garden stands as a symbol of sustainability and community unity.
Oasis Garden at The Living Legacy Center in Cypress. (Source: The LLC)The Oasis Garden was designed by volunteer Donald Graves, his wife Claudia, and Carol Burgeson, a retired pastor acting as Interim Director. The space allows community members to experience the joy of growing produce, offering a system of sustainability and ensuring nutritious food for The LLC clients and other vulnerable populations in the community. Extending their support, The LLC works closely with other nonprofit organizations like Cypress Assistance Ministries, providing fresh produce for their food pantry clients.
The garden is not only a source of food but also an oasis of peace where volunteers can connect with nature and each other. It comprises several sections, each serving its unique purpose, from a Therapy Garden offering a serene space for relaxation to the upcoming Victory Memorial Garden for visitors to remember their loved ones. Students have an opportunity to explore their interests in the environment at the Student Garden, providing an ideal experience for youth in FFA and 4-H.
Each week, The LLC welcomes volunteer groups to their Saturday morning work days. Experienced gardeners guide newcomers through the process, creating a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. During breaks, volunteers mingle over refreshments, swapping gardening tips and sharing accomplishments of the day. Teams are also welcome to come volunteer, and The LLC frequently sees groups of youth from local organizations like the Young Men's Service League and the Cy-Fair Key Club. To join in, prospective volunteers can reach out to Joey Barnes or Tammy Lynn Easley for details at info@livinglegacycenter.com.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
The LLC recently welcomed Tammy Lynn Easley to their team as the Community Events Director. Easley brings her vast expertise in event planning, community engagement, fundraising, and nonprofit management to the organization. As Community Events Director, she will enhance outreach and event initiatives, leveraging her innovative ideas to support the LLC's mission.
To learn more about The LLC and how you can get involved, visit livinglegacycenter.com.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
