Empower U, in partnership with our community, provides specialized instruction and opportunities that support employment readiness and independent living skills, helping young adults build purposeful and productive lives. For the past three years, we have had the privilege of bringing hands on garden classes to Empower U students, an experience that continues to be both meaningful and inspiring.
Led by Sarah Samosuik, our first program of 2026 kicked off in January while the garden was taking its winter nap. Even in the off season, learning and creativity were in full bloom as students worked together to assemble pinecone bird feeder kits. The activity encouraged teamwork, fine motor skills, and joyful collaboration.
It was a productive and fun day, with everyone pitching in to create around 60 pinecone bird feeder kits. These kits will be sold to help support garden education programs across West Michigan, extending the impact of the students’ work far beyond the classroom. Students were highly engaged, efficient, and clearly proud of what they accomplished together.
Watching the group collaborate and support one another was a powerful reminder that learning happens in many forms, in every season.
“Most of all, it was simply so nice to be together again,” shared Sarah. “Reconnecting and creating something that will bring life and nourishment to birds throughout the winter was really special.” We are grateful for our continued partnership with Empower U and look forward to many more opportunities to grow, learn, and create together in the year ahead.