Empowering Local Initiatives: A Generous Donation to Boost Community Garden’s Mission of Sustainability, Education, and Access to Fresh Produce

Hampstead, NC – November 12, 2024 – The Greater Topsail Community Garden has received a substantial boost in funding thanks to a remarkable donation from the Topsail Island Association of Realtors (TIAR). During the highly anticipated 11th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, held at the scenic North Shore Country Club, TIAR raised over $8,000 in support of the Greater Topsail Community Garden’s mission to provide accessible, sustainable, and locally grown produce to the community. This generous contribution will enable the garden to enhance its resources, expand its educational programs, and further enrich the lives of local community through community engagement, fresh healthy produce and sustainable practices.

Bringing Together Community and Purpose at the 11th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Hosted on October 24, 2024, the 11th Annual TIAR Charity Golf Tournament brought together community leaders, local business owners, and residents for a day filled with friendly competition, camaraderie, and purpose. The event not only highlighted the region’s passion for golf but underscored a strong commitment to local causes that uplift and support the community’s well-being. The funds raised at this year’s tournament mark a record achievement, with over $8,000 contributed directly to the Greater Topsail Community Garden. This donation is expected to play a transformative role in supporting the garden’s vision for a greener, more sustainable, and inclusive community.

“Each year, the TIAR Charity Golf Tournament brings together members of our community who are dedicated to giving back. This year’s focus on supporting the Greater Topsail Community Garden reflects our shared commitment to sustainability, food security, and community well-being,” said David Elam, TIAR Golf Tournament Committee Chair. “We’re proud to support such a meaningful cause and grateful to all the sponsors, participants, and volunteers who made this donation possible.”

Figure 1 Sandi Monroe, Steering Committee President, Greater Topsail Community Garden and David Elam, TIAR Member and Chair of the Charity Golf Tournament Committee

Empowering the Greater Topsail Community Garden's Mission

The Greater Topsail Community Garden, located near Surf City, NC, has become a beloved space where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to cultivate, learn, and grow. By providing access to fresh produce and hands-on gardening education, the garden plays a pivotal role in promoting food security, environmental stewardship, and a sense of community pride. With the funds donated by TIAR, the garden will be able to:

Enhance Infrastructure and Resources: New equipment, seeds, and materials can now be acquired, allowing for improved planting and harvesting processes and ensuring that the garden continues to thrive year-round.

Expand Educational Programs: These programs include workshops, classes, and community events focused on gardening, sustainability, nutrition, and wellness. The funds will enable the garden to extend these offerings to even more residents, fostering a culture of learning and community involvement.

Increase Access to Fresh Produce: By bolstering crop yields and supporting planting diversity, the garden will provide fresh fruits and vegetables to local families, contributing to greater food accessibility and health benefits for all.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Topsail Island Association of Realtors for their generous donation and their belief in the mission of the Greater Topsail Community Garden,” said Cathi Litcher, Garden Community Liaison. “This support will enable us to broaden our impact, bringing more people into the garden, and providing hands-on experiences that benefits the entire community.”

A Vision for Sustainable Community Growth and Education

The Greater Topsail Community Garden operates through a robust network of volunteers, educators, and community supporters, each of whom plays an integral role in maintaining the garden’s beauty and productivity. In addition to being a source of fresh produce, the garden is an invaluable educational resource, teaching residents of all ages the importance of sustainable practices, conservation, and healthy eating habits. With TIAR’s donation, the garden can now take on even more ambitious projects, including:

Outreach Programs: Bringing gardening workshops and educational events to local schools, community centers, and senior living facilities.

Volunteer Initiatives: Expanding opportunities for residents to contribute their time and talents through “Adopt a Bed” and “Plant Parent” programs, fostering a deeper sense of connection with the community garden.

Supporting Community Well-Being Through Partnership and Collaboration

The partnership between TIAR and the Greater Topsail Community Garden exemplifies how local organizations can come together to support causes that benefit the entire community. By aligning their efforts and resources, these groups are helping create a healthier, more connected, and resilient Topsail community.

For more information on how you can support or get involved with the Greater Topsail Community Garden, please visit https://kiwanisoftopsailisland.org/community-garden/ or attend upcoming harvests on Tuesdays from 8:30a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

About Topsail Island Association of Realtors

The Topsail Island Association of Realtors is a dedicated organization focused on advancing the real estate industry while making meaningful contributions to the local community. Through events, partnerships, and advocacy, TIAR supports initiatives that uplift the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors across the Topsail region. To learn more about TIAR’s community efforts and the 11th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, please visit https://www.usamls.net/topsailisland/.

About Greater Topsail Community Garden

The Greater Topsail Community Garden is a community-driven initiative in Hampstead, NC, devoted to fostering sustainable food practices, environmental awareness, and community engagement. Through collaborative efforts and education, the garden provides fresh produce to local families and serves as a living classroom where residents can learn and practice eco-friendly gardening methods. For more details on the Greater Topsail Community Garden’s programs, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events, please visit https://kiwanisoftopsailisland.org/community-garden/.

Media Contact

Cathi Litcher
Greater Topsail Community Garden
Phone: 919-422-9698
Email: topsailnccommunitygarden@gmail.com
Website: https://kiwanisoftopsailisland.org/community-garden/