Community Garden at Rawls Creek Park opens

The Ivy Heritage Foundation of Irmo, Inc. (IHF), in partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporatedã, Upsilon Omega Omega Chapter (UOO), and the Town of Irmo, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Green Iceberg Community Garden at Rawls Creek Park, 1113 Friarsgate Boulevard June 25.

The Green Iceberg is the first and one-of-a-kind community garden to support the Irmo community by providing increased access to food, nutrition, physical activity, and mental health. In addition, it will promote healthier lifestyles, help build stronger communities and relationships, and provide learning opportunities. The garden features 60 raised fruit and vegetable beds and separate children’s, senior, and perennial gardens, an irrigation system, and a four-tier water fountain. Future projects include an overhead-covered pavilion, which will serve as an outdoor learning laboratory, a paved walkway, lighting, an information center, and a pergola.

“We are grateful for our partnership with the Town of Irmo and our corporate sponsors – A Brighter Smile, Central Carolina Community Foundation, First Citizens, and the Irmo Arbor Day Committee. The impact the Green Iceberg Community Garden will have in the lives of so many is limitless. At the same time, it offers nutritious foods, gardening, and a calm environment for the community to enjoy. IHF continues to strengthen diverse partnerships to ensure the sustainability of the Green Iceberg,” said Dr. Joann M. Thompson, President.

The ceremony featured the Mayor of Irmo, representatives from IHF and UOO, and other special guests. There were appearances by UofSC’s mascot Cocky, FoodShare SC, Mary’s Mobile Farmers Market, The Food Academy, and financial literacy and prizes provided by State Credit Union.

For more information on the Green Iceberg Community Garden and how to sponsor or lease a raised bed visit, www.ivyheritageofirmo.org/green-iceberg-community-garden.

Photo: Ivy Heritage Foundation, Upsilon Omega Omega, Town of Irmo, special guests, and community members participate in the Green Iceberg Community Garden ribbon-cutting at Rawls Creek Park.