Middlebury Club is growing more than just friendships these days, we’re growing fresh veggies, too! Thanks to a generous donation of a Tower Garden through Tower Garden’s Growing Up Grant Program for Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the expert guidance of Steve Koontz, Indoor Gardening Specialist with Keep It Watered, our club has officially gone green in the coolest way.

The Tower Garden has become the star of two of our favorite programs: Snack Buddies and Garden Gnomies. Members have been learning how to plant, care for, and harvest their own food, turning everyday snacks into crunchy, homegrown goodness.

Our very first harvest was a big milestone: fresh, leafy lettuce! Not only did our members get to enjoy the fruits (or rather, leaves) of their labor, but our beloved Club pets, Neil and Cosmo, got in on the feast, too. These two tortoises are more than just mascots; they’re part of an ongoing volunteer opportunity called Pet Care. Indiana Kid members help feed, clean, and play with Neil and Cosmo, learning responsibility and compassion along the way.

This indoor garden isn’t just about plants; it’s about people coming together. “It’s been a privilege helping the Middlebury Club get growing on their new Tower Garden. Sheila and members of the Middlebury staff have been wonderful to work with, and I’m excited to see the Tower Garden being used so well” said Steve Knootz, owner of Keep It Watered and our volunteer garden expert.

We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who has helped make these programs possible, with a special shout-out to Steve’s business, Keep It Watered. While the system is simple to use, it’s nice to have an expert behind our efforts to make sure we get the most out of our indoor vertical garden.