Gertrude’s Garden: An Abandoned Lot Transformed to Vibrant Community Hub

In the heart of McComb, Mississippi, where an abandoned lot once stood, a vibrant community hub has taken root: Gertrude’s Garden. This remarkable transformation illustrates the power of reclaiming neglected spaces and the profound impact that “third places” – spaces beyond home and work where people can connect – can have on community well-being.

Gertrude’s Garden is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders. What was once an underutilized area is now a thriving space for art, community building and more. Their mission is to provide a safe and enriching environment for residents of all ages

The Garden has become a catalyst for positive change in the Burglund community. In 2023, they hosted their third annual Thanksgiving meal, serving over 200 residents at a warm and festive gathering. Additionally, an art installation named “Directions” now graces the space. This thought-provoking piece seeks to inspire the community’s youth.

Read on to hear more from Kevin Brown, Gertrude’s Garden’s community advocate.

What makes your organization an Impact Icon?

Gertrude’s Garden is a re-imagined and re-purposed abandoned lot in the historic Burglund community in Mccomb, MS. The Garden is located betweeen Burglund Heights housing complex and a convenience store. Gertrude’s Garden program includes art, literacy, recreation and community building.

Tell us about a project or initiative you’re working on right now that’s making a big impact on your community.

For our third annual Thanksgiving meal, over 200 residents were served a hot meal. We have also just completed an art installation named “Directions” which depicts the distance to well-known cities and identifies Burglund as the starting point for the journey of any youth of the community.

Community Impacts

The impact of Gertrude’s Garden is tangible, touching various aspects of community life:

• Public Safety: Enhanced lighting, a new crosswalk and traffic signs create a safer environment for everyone.
• Recreation: A playground, basketball court and other amenities provide much-needed opportunities for play and physical activity.
• Social Connection: Community gatherings like holiday meals and formal galas foster a sense of belonging and togetherness.

What role does volunteerism play in your organization’s overall mission and objectives?

Volunteerism plays the central role. There is nothing that we can achieve without volunteersism. We are not a nonprofit organization. All of our support comes from small in-kind donors and sweat equity.

How are you recognizing and thanking volunteers for their contributions?

We have a quarterly award certificate program, and we are also a President’s Volunteer Service Award Certifying Organization.

“A small step in the right direction can create change.” –Glenda Jordan, Gertrude’s Garden

What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone who’s looking to get more involved in their community through civic engagement?

Don’t wait, act! Any service that you can provide is an asset to your community.

Are you a nonprofit leader who is innovating in the social impact space and wants to become an Impact Icon? Answer our questionnaire, and you could be featured here on our blog!