Goodness Grows

Significant Dates in Goodness Grows History:2007 - Goodness Grows founded2010 - Work began with area schools; First CSA program held2011 - Bloomin' Butterfly Garden created by Mrs. Kromer's special needs class Goodness Grows operates inside and on the grounds of Common Ground Church Community. We are a separate 501(c)3 non-profit as well as being a mission of the church. Church members play a vital role in supporting our work here in North Lima and, in return, we take care of much of the property...inside and out! ​Goodness Grows is licensed through the state of Ohio as a Department of Developmental Disabilities service provider. We are a site that provides daily programming - vocational habilitation - for adults with disabilities. This means we provide training in a wide array of life skills.​Our clients spend their time here learning how to cook, bake, do laundry, clean, take care of gardens, and much more. We use gardening as a safe and intentional method to develop an individual's ability to socialize, improve physical and ​cognitive skills,​and learn to be more independent. Our clients learn about the importance of being good stewards of the environment, as they work to grow ​produce and herbs in a sustainable manner. We use our produce for a CSA, take it to markets, and donate at least 10% to local food banks. We are currently increasing programming by upgrading our facilities and continuing to connect with the community to provide job training resources and integrated employment opportunities for students and adults with disabilities. Goodness Grows works with area schools, educational programs, volunteers, and church groups. We are a work site for mission trips and volunteer days, where participants can be involved in a variety of indoor and outdoor hands-on projects.