Edna White
Community Garden
1812 W Monterey Ave, Chicago, IL 60643
Located on 111th street, between the Police Station and Morgan Park High School
Memorial Garden dedicated to Edna White since 1993
Make a donation.
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” - Dr. Seuss
Venmo your donation to @Kathy-Figel
Cash donations are accepted at all live events
ABOUT EDNA WHITEEdna White helped create the previously called “The Century Garden”, out of an abandoned lot at Monterey Avenue and Esmond Street and it was dedicated to her on August 7th, 1993.
She was known throughout the Morgan Park area as a community activist and friend, made contributions to her neighborhood in the areas of youth, human relations, gardens, local history and animal welfare.
Edna White was a committed gardener and active member of the Morgan Park Garden Club. Her late husband, Robert, was past president of the Ridge Historical Society, and she continued his support of the group.
Neighbors said she helped reunite missing pets and their owners and often had up to 20 abandoned or lost cats in her house at the same time.
Importance of Community Gardens
Community gardens have become an increasingly important aspect of urban life in recent years. Not only do they provide a source of fresh produce for those who participate, but they also serve to bring neighborhoods together in a positive and productive way. Creating and maintaining a community garden requires cooperation and collaboration, and the shared endeavor can help foster a sense of belonging and collective pride among participants.
Additionally, community gardens can contribute to important goals like food security, promoting a healthier diet and lifestyle, and supporting environmental sustainability. In all these ways, community gardens demonstrate the potential that simple, cooperative efforts can have to make a big difference in local communities.
Supporting Asylum Seekers
Please click here to read more: Block Club Chicago's Article about Venezuelan refugees and the impact of the Edna White Garden
At Edna White Community Garden, we believe in nurturing both the plants and the people who tend to them. Today, we reflect upon the significance of supporting asylum seekers and the vital role we can play in building bridges of compassion and hope for those who have sought refuge in our communities.
Asylum seekers, often escaping violence, persecution, or unbearable conditions in their home countries, embark on harrowing journeys in search of safety and a chance for a better life. In their pursuit of liberty and security, they may face overwhelming challenges and isolation.
We stand firm in the belief that every person deserves dignity and respect. As we gather in the green embrace of our community garden, we recognize the profound impact we can make. Collaboration is key. By pooling our resources and sharing our knowledge, we amplify our impact and provide a comprehensive network of support for those who have sought refuge among us.
As members of Edna White Community Garden, we pledge to stand alongside asylum seekers, extending compassion, support, and solidarity.
Live Music
Join us for live music in the garden!
[check out our Facebook group for more updates on events]
Are you a musician who would like to perform at the garden? Reach out to Kathy Figel
Dia De Los Muertos
Day Of The Dead
Family friendly event at the start of November each year
[See Facebook group for more details]
The Day of the Dead (el Día de los Muertos), is a Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink and celebration.
We honor this tradition by inviting everyone from the community to join together and honor our loved ones who have passed as we build our large community ofrenda, gather together around campfires, enjoy cultural music, the showing of Coco, and more!
