Hidden between a freeway and a big box store, lies a park that’s bringing change to the community. Almost a decade ago, a vacant lot within the Alta Murrieta Sports Park was leased to mothers who wanted a space for their children with special needs. With this in mind, Cultivating Inclusion was born. They took the lot and created a community garden where special needs children could have a space to learn valuable gardening skills. The organization grew over the years and became a 501(c)(3) non-profit and now accepts volunteers from all over the area to help grow food, learn valuable skills, and further build an inclusive space.

They donate the produce to local food banks and provide a valuable community-oriented approach in Murrieta. The garden has raised beds, a full range of tools, an orchid, and many trellises, all hosting different varieties of seasonal produce. This farm gives special needs children and adults a safe place to learn the fundamentals of gardening and the experience of doing it in a place that makes a difference to the local community.

The garden accepts group volunteers, such as the case with the MSJC Comm Club, which visited last semester and helped harvest pounds of lemons to donate to those in need. The garden is always looking for volunteers, whether it’s for education, harvesting crops, or community outreach. There is no experience or experiment required. Just show up, have fun, and make a difference in the local community.

The Cultivating Inclusion Farm can be found at: https://cultivatinginclusionfarm.com/ and is located at 39775 Alta Murrieta, Murrieta, CA 92563.  If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the form at https://cultivatinginclusionfarm.com/contact-us.