Gardening Day at Ursula Sherman Village—More Than Just Planting
- bossbayarea
- May 5
- 2 min read
Planting Seeds, Growing Futures
On Saturday, April 12th, the Ursula Sherman Village (USV) shelter came alive with laughter, sunshine, and the hum of teamwork. As part of UC Berkeley’s annual Berkeley Project Day, 25–30 student volunteers joined BOSS staff and residents, with the support of our Berkeley neighbors, for our Annual Gardening Day—a celebration of healing, learning, and community care.
This wasn’t just about pulling weeds or planting kale. It was about creating space for something deeper: memories, hope, and belonging. For our residents—many of whom arrive at USV after experiencing profound loss and hardship—gardening offers more than beauty. It offers a rhythm, a routine, a reason to get their hands dirty in service of something that grows.
From community members lending tools and nursery tips, to staff offering guidance and water bottles, every detail reflected what BOSS believes at its core: Healing happens in community. Dignity is built with care. And even small acts—like planting a seed—can transform lives.
I don't know what I'm doing, but we're gonna figure it out together. Lol. I borrowed a local nursery employee's knowledge. We secured many bags of potting soil and seeds for the season. John Darby, Director of Housing
That’s what we do at BOSS—we make room for restoration.
Why It Matters
Families come to USV with little more than hope. And here, they gain more than shelter—they gain life skills, community, and agency. Gardening teaches patience, ownership, and the value of nurture. And when someone sees the fruits of their labor bloom? That’s empowerment.
How You Can Help
You don’t need a green thumb to help something grow.
Let’s keep sowing seeds of resilience—together.
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