October 2, 2023 -Each year, Master Gardeners from all over Illinois are recognized at the state Master Gardener conference. One Macon County Master Gardener received the 2023 Outstanding Illinois Master Gardener award for her dedication to the Crossing Healthcare Community Garden.
Brenda Craven completed her Master Gardener training in 2019 and has logged more than 789 volunteer hours. She has served as chair of the Crossing Healthcare Prescription Produce Garden since 2020. Brenda leads the planning of different garden areas, oversees the starting of seeds in the greenhouse, and creates focused task lists for each volunteer who tends to the garden. Her commitment to education includes garden tours, garden open houses, and collaboration between 4-H and the Decatur Public Schools. Brenda is always seeking new ways to increase public awareness of the Crossing Garden.
“Brenda is an exceptional Master Gardener with an enthusiasm for helping others learn to grow,” says Whitney Allison, horticulture program coordinator. “She is committed to serving the people in our community.”
Brenda received her award on September 8 at the 2023 Illinois State Master Gardener Conference in Peoria.
The Macon County Master Gardeners are volunteers trained by University of Illinois Extension. Master Gardeners fulfill their mission of Helping Others Learn to Grow by volunteering their time and horticulture skills through community gardening projects and educational outreach.
