Step into the sensory garden at Easy Living’s Bolivar facility, and all five of your senses will come alive. The scent of herbs fills the air, wind chimes gently sway in the breeze, colorful flowers attract butterflies, and fresh vegetables are growing. More than just a beautiful outdoor space, the garden is designed to promote learning, independence, and connection.
Although the idea was first planted more than a year ago, the sensory garden has come to life over the past several months through the dedication of staff, volunteers, and community partners.
The sensory garden is specifically designed to stimulate all five senses:
- See colorful flowers and butterfly-friendly plants
- Smell herbs like rosemary, lavender, and basil
- Feel flowers, leaves, and soil with your hands
- Hear wind chimes as the breeze blows
- Taste vegetables and edible plants
Inspiration From All Around
Much like the patience required to cultivate a garden from seed to bloom, the patience for the sensory garden to come to life has taken time. Nicole Webb, Bolivar Activity Coordinator, realized through her own volunteer work that gardening is more than just growing plants—it teaches valuable life skills and brings people together.
Drawing further inspiration from the sensory garden at the St. Louis Zoo, Nicole set out to build a space that feels comforting, welcoming, and, most importantly, accessible to everyone.
“I had such a feeling of calm and accomplishment after working in the garden with a friend,” said Nicole. “I knew I wanted to bring this project to life for our individuals so they could also experience the benefits and value of working with their hands.”
Driven by the Easy Living mission to promote independence, community, and an enhanced quality of life, individuals are:
- Learning practical life skills through hands-on gardening
- Experiencing nature in a safe, accessible environment
- Building friendships and working together as a team
- Feeling a sense of accomplishment by growing their own food
A Helping Hand From the Community
While Nicole envisioned the garden, she’s quick to acknowledge it’s taken shape thanks to many helping hands. Nick Long from Long Excavation donated his team’s time to prepare the land for the garden.
“It would have taken so much longer without Nick,” said Nicole. “He and his team were instrumental in getting this sensory garden going so individuals could start enjoying the space sooner.”
The space has already become a gathering place where individuals spend time with friends and family, enjoying the outdoors together. But Nicole has more plans to continue expanding the garden over time, including adding a fountain or water feature, a music wall, and additional sensory elements.
Nicole’s greatest hope for the space is that it continues to be a place all individuals at Easy Living can access to experience peace and serenity.
The sensory garden is just one example of how Easy Living creates meaningful opportunities for individuals to learn, grow, and build independence. If you’d like to learn more about our programs and facilities, we’d like to connect with you.
