Our Community Garden is a shared space where Camp Wannago youth work alongside University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardeners to learn, grow, and give back. Through hands-on gardening, kids build skills, confidence, and a sense of stewardship—while helping maintain a garden that’s open and welcoming to the public.
Each season, Camp Wannago kids partner with Master Gardeners to help care for the garden. Together they:
Weed, water, and mulch garden beds
Plant and maintain vegetables and flowers
Learn gardening basics, teamwork, and environmental responsibility
This partnership allows children to learn directly from experienced gardeners while contributing to a community space everyone can enjoy.
While the garden is active and well-loved, we do not have funding built into our budget for ongoing garden supplies. To keep this space healthy and accessible for kids, volunteers, and the
public, we rely on community support.
There are two great ways to get involved:
Volunteer your time in the garden
Donate gardening supplies or funds
We gladly accept new or gently used gardening supplies for our Master Gardeners and Camp Wannago kids to use.
Most-needed items include:
Gardening gloves (youth and adult sizes)
Hand tools (trowels, weeders, cultivators)
Watering cans, hoses, and nozzles
Buckets, wheelbarrow, or garden cart
Mulch and compost
Stakes, twine, plant ties, and plant markers
Financial donations help us purchase essential supplies we cannot receive through donations.
Your gift supports:
Child-sized gardening tools and safety gear
Soil, compost, mulch, and seasonal supplies
Replacement tools and shared materials
Donate by check: Itasca Co Family YMCA 400 River Road Grand Rapids, MN 55744
The Community Garden is more than a garden—it’s a place for learning, mentorship, and connection. With your help, we can continue providing meaningful outdoor experiences for kids while maintaining a space the whole community can enjoy.
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