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"Gardengate has truly been life-changing for me," shares Dan, a participant in the Gardengate program. "Everyone here has been super nice and supportive. It's a paradise!"

For 25 years, the Gardengate Horticulture Program, managed by Open Door Group, has been a cornerstone of community wellness and food security in Kamloops. Nestled on a stunning 2.8-acre farm, the program has supported over 1,500 individuals on their journeys of recovery and self-discovery. Each year, over 5,000 volunteer hours go into hands-on activities that foster personal growth, skill-building, and connection. In 2023-2024 alone, 52 individuals participated in the program, with nine moving forward to Open Door Group's employment services to pursue sustainable careers.

Now, as 2025 marks Gardengate’s 25th anniversary, the program is celebrating this milestone with a year-long series of activities, learning opportunities, and community events. Robert Wright, Gardengate’s Program Manager, highlights the significance of this occasion: "This celebration isn’t just about looking back on what we’ve achieved—it’s about coming together as a community to plant the seeds for the future."

Here’s a closer look at the three key activities planned for the 25th-anniversary celebrations:

1. Gardengate Monthly Photo Contest: Capture and share the beauty of your gardening experiences at Gardengate by participating in the Gardengate 25^th anniversary monthly photo contest. Each month will feature a different theme related to gardening, wellness, or community. Participants can submit their photos to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and winners will be selected based on creativity and relevance to the theme. Prizes include exclusive Gardengate merchandise, and features on both Gardengate & Open Door Group social media platforms.
2. Collect Stamps and Earn Special Prizes: Engage with Gardengate throughout the year by collecting stamps at various events, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Participants will receive a Gardengate stamp card, and each event attended earns a stamp. Collect a certain number of stamps to redeem special prizes such as organic produce baskets, gardening supplies, or limited-edition anniversary memorabilia. This initiative encourages ongoing involvement and celebrates the community’s commitment.
3. Exclusive Gardengate Merchandise: To celebrate the 25th anniversary, Gardengate has curated a selection of special merchandise available exclusively at the program. Items include eco-friendly tote bags, gardening aprons, custom seed packets, and commemorative pins. Purchasing these items allows supporters to show their Gardengate pride while contributing to the continuation of the program’s initiatives.

To make the celebration even more exciting, Gardengate is offering a variety of prizes throughout the year. By participating in contests, attending events, or purchasing merchandise, attendees will have the chance to win organic produce baskets, and exclusive Gardengate 25^th anniversary swag collection, specially designed by the talented Open Door Group illustrator Parastoo Ahmadi. These prizes are a small token of appreciation for the community’s ongoing support and engagement.

Over the past 25 years, Gardengate has not only enriched the lives of participants but also contributed significantly to Kamloops’ food security. In 2023 alone, the program produced over 29,215 pounds of organic produce, which was shared with local food banks, participants, and community members. Volunteers, participants, and staff have worked together to create a legacy of sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity that continues to thrive.

Gordon, Gardengate volunteer reflects, "Gardengate is more than a program. It’s a family. Seeing participants grow in confidence and skills is incredibly rewarding. I’m so proud to be a part of this journey."

“As we celebrate 25 years of growth, connection, and wellness, I am deeply grateful to the participants, volunteers, team members, community partners, and funders who have made Gardengate a special, safe, and transformative space for those in need,” Rob concludes with a warm smile. “Here’s to planting the seeds of connection and impact that will continue to flourish for many years to come.”

Gardengate’s 25th anniversary is an opportunity to honor a remarkable legacy. Whether you are a past participant, a volunteer, or someone new to the program, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn.

Stay updated on upcoming events, contests, and special announcements by visiting Gardengate Facebook page: Gardengate Facebook. For more details about this program and how to get involved, please visit Gardengate’s Website.