Cultivating Kindness Through Gardening

“I’m Emma Mericle, a second-year OTD student at UTMB,” she begins with enthusiasm. “Through a scholarship, I was able to create a program called Bloom Galveston. It’s a community garden initiative designed to cultivate kindness, civility, and independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

Bloom Galveston operates at the Sunshine Center, a day center for individuals with disabilities in Galveston. The program focuses on teaching participants the importance of gardening, providing them with the skills and tools needed to grow their own produce. “We’re not just gardening. We’re learning why we’re doing it and how it connects to wellness and independence,” Emma explains. Galveston’s unique climate plays a significant role in Bloom’s success. “We’re in Zone 19, and the mild winters and moisture allow us to grow crops year-round,” Emma says. The current garden includes kale, collard greens, carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. “Overall, the climate here lets us grow more than we could in colder regions.”

Emma’s research into gardening highlights its profound impact on mental health. “Gardening provides a sense of autonomy and accomplishment,” she explains. “For individuals with disabilities, it offers a chance to care for something else, as they’re often the ones being cared for.” The inclusivity of gardening makes it particularly special. “Whether someone uses adaptive equipment or not, everyone can participate,” she says. “It fosters independence and builds social connections. Research shows helping others improve mental wellness, and at Bloom, participants are not just gardening—they’re teaching and supporting one another.” Emma recalls the joy of seeing participants react to the transformed garden for the first time. “They were so excited and happy. It was incredibly encouraging to see how much they embraced it,” she says.

When asked about turning Galveston into a Blue Zone, Emma points to kindness and community as key factors. “When I started this project, I conducted a needs assessment. What stood out most was the need for kindness and civility,” she says. Emma believes that adding purpose to activities like gardening can create a lasting impact. “It’s not just about having a garden..it’s about why we’re doing it. We want to serve others and build a community rooted in kindness and connection.” Bloom Galveston is more than a garden. It's a community project fueled by donations and volunteer support. “If anyone is interested in helping out or learning more, we’re always open to talking about it,” Emma shares.

As the program grows, Emma hopes to see it inspire others in the Galveston community. “Gardening is a small step, but it’s a powerful way to bring people together, improve mental health, and build a more connected, sustainable community.” Bloom Galveston, is planting seeds for a kinder, healthier Galveston.