About Us

Welcome to the Susan Whelchel Community Garden, a vibrant, inclusive space dedicated to growing more than just plants - we grow community, connections, and caring. Located within Meadows Park in Boca Raton, Florida, this garden is rooted in purpose, partnership, and pride.

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Our Story

What began as the Boca Community Garden, the vision for the garden was first cultivated by Susan Whelchel during her tenure as Mayor of Boca Raton. On Earth Day 2010, the city donated the land and water resources, and a partnership was formed with the Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) to build and maintain the garden. 

The garden was moved to its current home in Meadows Park and was officially renamed in honor of Susan Whelchel, recognizing her role as a steward of the environment and advocate for the community.

As stated by local leadership: “The Boca Raton Community Garden … will bear the name of one of its original guiding lights.” 

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Our Mission

• To cultivate community by bringing together people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities through shared stewardship of the land.

• To nurture sustainability, supporting healthy ecosystems, pollinators, and nutrient-rich soil in an urban setting.

• To grow nourishment - for both body and soul - by providing fresh produce to our gardeners and by donating a portion of our harvest to local food-assistance programs. 

• To educate and empower, offering hands-on opportunities for volunteering, planting, harvesting, and learning about environmental and nutritional wellness.

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What We Offer

• A network of garden plots where individuals and groups can lease space to grow vegetables, fruits, flowers, and pollinator-friendly plants.

• A welcoming, communal environment where neighbors meet, ideas sprout, and friendships flourish.

• Volunteer and educational programs including seasonal planting days, Earth Day celebrations, youth outreach, and community partner collaborations. 

• A direct connection to the local community through produce donations and support of hunger-relief initiatives. 

• A serene garden environment nestled in Meadows Park - ideal for peaceful reflection or small group gatherings.

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Our Values

• Stewardship: Respecting the earth, conserving resources, and fostering biodiversity.

• Inclusion: Welcoming all members of the community to participate, regardless of experience.

• Collaboration: Partnering with the City of Boca Raton, local nonprofits, schools, and volunteers.

• Growth: Cultivating plants, knowledge, relationships - and - impact.

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Join Us

Whether you’re an experienced gardener, a curious first-timer, a community group, or simply someone who loves nature and neighbors - there’s a place for you here.

• Secure a plot and grow your own bounty.

• Volunteer for planting days or educational events.

• Attend community gatherings and Earth-friendly programs.

• Support our mission by sharing your time, ideas, or resources.

Together, we grow more than plants. We grow connection, health, and hope.

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Location & Hours

Find us at:

Meadows Park

1300 NW 8th Street, Boca Raton, FL 33486 

Open from sunrise. until sunset daily. Subject to change.

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Thank you for visiting our page. We hope to welcome you soon at the Susan Whelchel Community Garden - where community takes root and grows.