FREE TIME: Help grow some dreams with people facing disabilities

DO IT

A 4-year-old greenhouse business is growing opportunities for individuals with disabilities. “One of the areas we are looking for volunteers is as job coaches to work with our team members at the greenhouse and grounds,” says Laurie Staple, executive director of We Grow Dreams and a former special education teacher and administrator. A video on its Web site captures the inspiring project in West Chicago. Similar opportunities have just sprung up at Seguin Gardens & Gifts in Cicero, whose marketing director Julie Lerch says volunteers with gardening expertise are needed for the new, year-round enterprise.

Job skills for people with disabilities are nurtured at We Grow Dreams Greenhouse & Garden Center. SUBMITTED PHOTO

WHOM IT HELPS

At We Grow Dreams, about 30 people, currently ages 14 to 45, take part in the program, designed to foster their independence by teaching a variety of job skills as they make friends, help staffers assist customers and enjoy working in the community.

HOW TO HELP

“Job coaching doesn’t require any background with special needs individuals,” Staple says, noting volunteers receive training. Others are sought to help with the Bowlathon fundraiser in February or to do craft sessions with team members to make items for the gift shop, from greeting cards to personalized garden bricks. People with building skills are sought to assist with repairs, and gardening enthusiasts can help establish herb and flower gardens. Donations and customers are always welcome support.

MORE INFO

FAR WEST SITE: We Grow Dreams Greenhouse & Garden Center
ADDRESS 1055 W. Washington St., West Chicago
PHONE (630) 293-0100
EMAIL lstaple@wegrowdreams.org
WEB www.wegrowdreams.org
HOURS  Currently, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday

CICERO SITE: Seguin Gardens & Gifts, 5621 W. 31st St., Cicero
PHONE (708) 222-2772
WEB www.seguin.org