A pioneering after-school Club has just finished up its first 4 week programme in Greencastle Community Centre and is set to return in January 2023.
‘Growing Wild’ is an ecotherapy project with a difference, focusing on the mental and physical benefits of horticulture and green spaces.
“The feedback from the first four sessions has been fantastic,” said Centre Manager Susan McAleer. “Growing Wild connects children with nature, they can learn new skills, have fun, play and develop self-confidence, it’s been a lovely experience”
With Kate O’Callaghan (Horticulturalist) and Anne Meehan (Mindfulness Facilitator) facilitating the sessions, they have found the perfect balance of practical hands-on learning as well as therapeutic practices and mindfulness.
Funded through Donegal County Council’s Healthy Communities, the project is the first of its kind in the county.
“We have seen first-hand the benefits that a course like this has for children and we can’t wait to deliver more sessions like this in 2023,” concluded Susan.