UNO students are using their spring break to give back as part of UNO’s Seven Days of Service. One of their first efforts was at Manderson Community Garden in North Omaha.
Ella Willis has been putting her heart and soul into this community garden for six years.
"We turned it into a memorial garden. And hoping this year we'll be able to put our stones down and ask for donations in honor of their loved ones," said Willis.
"Getting a lot of the dead stuff out and getting ready for the life to grow. We're doing some raking and putting some mulch around trees,” said Shomari Huggins, a recent UNO graduate.
Miss Ella, as she’s affectionately known, and the students hope this project gives the community something to be proud of and to enjoy come spring.
"I hope it looks awesome. I hope the people take advantage of it. Nice place to just come out and relax and enjoy," said Willis.
"I think the gardens are very good because they represent life, and that's what we want in our community. We want to represent life and growth. But for this to continue to be a success, we'll need the community to come out, and I believe they will," said Huggins.
Miss Ella said she hopes that everyone in the neighborhood will take up the cause to maintain the garden.
"You don't have to move to live in a better neighborhood. And that's what I feel everyone should do. Take pride in where they live and keep it clean," said Willis.
UNO's Seven Days of Service will continue from March 18th – March 25th. Anyone is invited to participate. You can find details on UNO’s webpage.
