Stories

Real-world stories reveal what happens when nature is part of our lives. From community gardens, parks, and wilderness areas, to therapeutic spaces and nature inspired programs, these stories highlight the people, places, and partnerships that make a difference in their communities.

SOCO survivors wearing pink shirts proudly show off their achievement of climbing to the top of Mt. Sherman during a CA to 14k event.

One Step at a Time: Healing Through Hiking with Live By Living

Live By Living helps cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers discover the healing power of nature through hikes and mountain retreats in Colorado and beyond.

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A long line of people walking along a sunny dirt path lined with tall trees and lush plants in the Odesa Botanical Garden.

Roots of Resilience: Therapeutic Horticulture in Wartime Ukraine

In wartime Ukraine, therapeutic horticulturalists are transforming botanical gardens into spaces of healing by addressing trauma and cultivating peace amid conflict.

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A climber who uses a wheelchair belays another climber during an adaptive climbing program in Murfreesboro, TN. Another person in a wheelchair is watching the belayer and climber on the climbing wall. A volunteer is standing behind the belayer with her arms raised in the air. Ropes hang from the climbing wall in front of the belayer in his wheelchair.

Catalyst Sports Blazes New Trails for Adaptive Athletes

Catalyst Sports empowers athletes with physical disabilities to embrace adventure and explore the outdoors. From rock climbing to mountain biking, its programs are expanding access across the Southeastern United States.

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The Program Director Juleon Lewis and Farm Manager Montana Stoval line up for a picture with four Assistant Crew Leaders (ACLs) in a cabin living room. Lewis poses with a thumbs-up and a bright smile, which Stoval and the ACLs also wear on their faces.

Sowing the Seeds of Community at FunkyTown Food Project

At FunkyTown Food Project, Fort Worth youth grow sustainable farming skills while battling food insecurity and building a stronger community.

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The gated entrance to DUG’s community garden. A canopy of green leaves hangs above the gate like an awning.

Mike Finds Healing in the Garden—and Brings a Community with Him

“Mike” is not just a gardener; he is a devoted steward of the land. He finds both peace and purpose in a garden and takes pride in his contribution to the Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) network of over 200 community and school-based gardens. 

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