We aimed to enhance learning opportunities for people with disabilities, including those with mental health challenges, mild to moderate developmental intellectual disabilities, seniors with cognitive impairment, and autism spectrum disorder. The Healing Gardener program offered therapeutic gardening training to teach participants how to create healing gardens and benefit from nature's advantages. These gardens were established through hands-on training in rehabilitation centers or public spaces, enriching the community. In addition to providing gardening training, the project also established therapeutic spaces for clients of partner organizations. Participants learned how to establish a therapeutic garden step by step and how to care for it throughout the year, which contributed to improved well-being and increased their job prospects. They developed environmental awareness, social skills, technical abilities, and the gardens served (and will keep doing so) as sensory training, relaxation, and skill development hubs. Students also became trained therapeutic garden tour guides, sharing their expertise with visitors and users of our gardens.
We applied for the Healing Gardener project to address the growing disconnect between society and nature, exacerbated by factors like urbanization and technology. Recognizing the importance of nature for psychological and physical well-being, we sought to reintegrate it into people's lives, particularly for those facing challenges like disabilities. The project aimed to combat the nature-deficit disorder prevalent in modern society, offering therapeutic gardening as a solution. By creating green spaces and promoting interaction with nature, we aimed to mitigate issues like stress, anxiety, and lack of concentration. The project empowered individuals with disabilities to provide green care to others, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment. People with disabilities often receive prolonged treatment and care. With Healing Gardener, we reversed the roles, enabling them to take charge of providing care for others and society. Through this initiative, we successfully addressed identified needs, promoting mental health, physical well-being, and social inclusion, aligning with the project's objectives.