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Wickham Park is a non-profit, private foundation whose property extends into both Manchester and East Hartford, Connecticut.
The park contains 250 acres of gardens, open fields, woodlands, ponds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and other attractions.
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“Imagine if you will a garden for the senses, touching each individual through the use of raised garden beds, fountains, assistive technology, and unique art.”
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“The new sensory garden will expose visitors to the value of their senses while promoting social inclusion in the best possible environment for any individual with disabilities.”
- M. Jodi Rell, Governor of the State of Connecticut
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The sensory garden will become our premier garden facility, and a center of activity that will allow us to serve the general public by hosting a place that will
appeal to EVERY vistor and provide them with a meaningful experience through exploration of many beautiful aspects of nature.
Upon completion, our sensory garden will be the largest of its kind in New England and one of the largest in the United States, spanning over one half acre.
However, as we all know bigger does not always equal better. Extensive research combined with cooperation from a variety of agencies that advocate for
persons with disabilities, and input from potential guests has led to a carefully devised plan to integrate unique garden features that accommodates their senses and
maximizes their experience.
However, in order to realize the full potential of this facility, we need your help.
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“The greatest desire is to contribute, so having an accessible place with a listening group willing to accept the contribution of people, adults and children with disabilities is really the greatest gift that's going to keep giving and giving throughout the years.”
- George Ducharme. Institute of Disability and Community Inclusion, Manchester Community College
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Your tax-deductible donation to Wickham Park will help ensure this project succeeds and is given the best possible amenities to support
individuals with disabilities.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: We hope you will consider joining our efforts to develop this exciting educational garden facility as a volunteer.
To fulfill our expectations for this garden, we are seeking agencies and individuals who are interested in outdoor education,
accessibility and inclusion issues, assistive technology, therapeutic gardening, or enrichment for persons with disabilities. There are a number
of specific components that might interest you which will be part of the garden design:
Walkways, patios and retaining walls
Fencing
Irrigation system
Electrical hookups
Plant materials
Signage
Structures: gazebo, pergolas, gateways
Sculptures, interactive displays
Assistive Technology, i.e. Braille and audio stations
Paving
For more information or to make a donation, call (860)528-0856 or email to info@wickhampark.org
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