Skyland Trail receives ‘Legacy Garden’ at 23rd Annual Southeastern Flower Show
Atlanta (Jan. 21, 2009) - The Southeastern Horticultural Society honored Skyland Trail by naming the mental health treatment center its 2009 ‘Legacy Garden' recipient.
The Southeastern Flower Show's Legacy Garden was created in 1994 to contribute to the community the valuable plants and resources collected for the event to the community. The program has grown to become an ongoing partnership of the Southeastern Horticultural Society, the show exhibitors, Atlanta area businesses, and civic and garden clubs and symbolizes a lasting legacy for the community.
Horticultural therapy is an integral aspect of Skyland Trail's overall treatment philosophy. Through the horticulture program, clients nurture each of Skyland Trail's gardens with hands-on care. The program is designed to improve clients' self-esteem and creativity, increase their socialization, and to provide sensory stimulation. Additionally, clients gain skills needed to pursue competitive employment in the gardening world.
"What it takes to make a flower grow is what it takes to make a human prosper," said Skyland Trail Horticultural Therapist Libba Shortridge.
"Skyland Trail is honored to be selected as the recipient of this award," said Skyland Trail President Beth Finnerty, "and it will truly be a lasting legacy for our clients and for the community."
About Skyland Trail
Skyland Trail is a community-based non-profit organization that offers hope to adults with mental illness by teaching them the practical skills they need to lead productive and independent lives. We provide a unique curriculum of innovative services, tailored to the individual clients, to improve mental, physical and social well-being. Programs are offered in Atlanta on three campus-like settings and are led by a team of caring professionals who are specialists in their fields.
About the Southeastern Horticultural Society
The Southeastern Horticultural Society (SHS) is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to promoting the knowledge, art and enjoyment of horticulture throughout the Southeastern United States [including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee] through community outreach, education, events and resource sharing. Visit www.sehort.org for more information about the Southeastern Horticultural Society.
Chas Strong
Communications Specialist
678.686.5912
cstrong@skylandtrail.org
