Altrusa International of Nanaimo has assembled a crew of volunteers for a hands-on project to help Haven Society.
With warm days following a wet spring, a healthy crop of tall weeds has taken over the grounds at Haven’s community services building. Altrusa members visit Haven every two weeks throughout the summer to pull weeds, cultivate and haul debris away.
An added bonus was the discovery of treasured plants such as native ferns, evergreens and ornamental grasses planted 18 months ago when the new building was completed.
The use of volunteer gardeners not only improves the property’s appearance, but also frees up Haven’s resources.
Haven Society and Altrusa have had a long-term relationship, with the service club donating $24,000 for a children’s wing in 1992 and $15,000 for a teen room in 1999. Altrusa has also provided care kits for women in crisis situations since 2005.
Haven Society provides services to women, children, youth and families who have experienced violence and abuse.
Various programs offer shelter, emotional support, counselling, advocacy, court accompaniment and a place to begin the healing process.
For more information on Haven Society, please go to www.havensociety.com.
For more on Altrusa, please go to www.altrusa.org/Nanaimo.