supporting a brighter future for our children

When Riverside Elementary School recognized a problem with declining enrollment they recognized that new and different programs were needed to attract new students. The idea was born for a garden project so students could study and learn how to grow their own fresh produce. This would not only prove to be vitally enriching to the students knowledge, but would also help fend off the fear of food insecurity that was being felt around the time of the pandemic.

There was only one problem. Where the money would come from…? 

The Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk Foundation and its partners got involved. Everybody in the community played a part in planning and organizing, and the funding was there to make sure the work could be completed. Pretty soon there were new 4-H programs, new planter boxes, new tools and lots of plants grow. A green house and benches were installed to finish out the project and make the gardens a place beauty. The value gained from the time and money invested will pay dividends for years to come!