David & Margaret’s Hope Garden Provides Spiritual Oasis

David & Margaret Chaplain Gail Kuskey, accompanied by staff and residents, dedicates the agency’s new Hope Garden.

True to that sentiment, David & Margaret Youth and Family Services has added the Hope Garden to its extensive roster of programs, services and features that benefit youth, children and families in its surrounding communities. A small corner behind the institutional sign at the agency’s 16-acre La Verne campus has become a dedicated spot for its residents, girls who range in age from 11 to 18 to pause, to reflect, meditate and pray. The garden welcomes alumni and community visitors as well.

Officially dedicated in May, the Hope Garden features colorful camellias, day lilies, azaleas, hibiscus, and flowering trees with red, heart-shaped leaves. A “Path of Wisdom” will be paved with engraved bricks purchased by David & Margaret supporters to commemorate births, weddings, graduations, passings and other significant life events. Businesses and foundations are also welcome to show their support with bricks engraved with their names and logos. Proceeds from purchases of bricks, plants for the garden, benches and plaques for the garden will support residents’ spiritual life and recovery programs.

David & Margaret Youth and Family Services empowers children, youth and families through culturally diverse services. These include a residential program for adolescent girls, a foster family agency that provides adoption assistance, enhanced educational and mental health services, family intervention, counseling and support, a self-injury treatment program, treatment for learning disabilities, a transitional living program, and school- and community-based education and mentoring programs.

For more information on David & Margaret’s Hope Garden, visit www.DavidandMargaret.org or call Development Director Kathy Wessels at (909) 596-5921, ext. 3246.