Cornerstone 4-H Club of Southwest City was recently awarded a $500 grant to invest in the community.
The Shaping Rural Missouri Grant is offered by Farm Credit Services to implement a project that will make their area a better place to live. Clubs and chapters are encouraged to choose a project that adds tangible value - an improvement that can be seen or touched.
On Saturday, June 18, members of the Cornerstone chapter utilized the money to spruce up the grounds around the Senior Center. They created two flowerbeds as well as a small raised vegetable garden to provide fresh produce to local seniors. Tomatoes, green, and red peppers are a few of the vegetables in the works.
To stretch their budget, members also repurposed common farm items into the landscape.
A classic enameled coffee pot spills over with greenery next to a toolbox bursting with flowers.
A gate next to the entrance features a vintage cement trowel as a handle and two antique hinges from a local barn.
A stump was given new life when it was used as a planter for bright blooms.
Ronda Holley, 4-H leader, encouraged kids to take the reigns on this project.
"I want them to do as much planning, thinking, and landscaping as they can for themselves," she said.
Cornerstone 4-H members range in age from five- to 16-years-old - allowing participation of all types.
Older members used power tools to cut, level, and construct the raised beds while youth got their hands dirty planting flowers.
"The club really out-did themselves," said Senior Center Director Melissa Lance. "The seniors have been really enjoying everything and keep saying what a great job they did."
Lance thanks the 4H chapter for their hard work and commitment as well as local merchants and individuals who donated supplies.
Community on 06/23/2016