St. Cloud State University Community Garden Day

On September 25, 2025, Jake Anderson, Mayor of St. Cloud, proclaimed St. Cloud State University Community Garden Day. The proclamation reads:

WHEREAS, in 2005, Dr. Tracy Ore, Professor of Sociology at St. Cloud State University, established the St. Cloud State University Community Garden, transforming a vacant campus space into a thriving hub of community activity and environmental sustainability; and

WHEREAS, over twenty years, the garden has grown from 5,000 square feet to an expanded space serving as a vibrant intersection where campus and community members collaborate, learn, and share in their collective efforts; and

WHEREAS, the garden has fostered deep connections between people and the land, providing hands-on growing experiences while preserving cultural traditions and serving as an invaluable educational resource integrated into over 15 academic departments; and

WHEREAS, the garden has demonstrated remarkable community impact by producing thousands of jars of preserved foods, hosting farmers markets, supporting cultural celebrations, and connecting SCSU's diverse international students to foods of their homelands; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Ore has consulted with over 50 organizations on community garden development across Minnesota and beyond, while the garden has established partnerships with more than 75 community organizations and local businesses; and

WHEREAS, the garden's inclusive, no-fences approach welcomes volunteers of all ages and backgrounds, creating a space where children learn, families build memories, and neighbors develop meaningful relationships built on trust and mutual support;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jake Anderson, Mayor of the City of St. Cloud, do hereby proclaim September 25th as

ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY GARDEN DAY

and extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Tracy Ore, St. Cloud State University, volunteers, and community partners for twenty years of service and stewardship.