"Grow our Garden" Restoration Project

Culpepper Garden seeks funds to support the restoration and beautification of the gardens and grounds surrounding our affordable senior housing community.  Culpepper Garden is situated on a nearly 5 acres estate in the heart of Arlington, VA. With 346 apartments for lower-income people over age 62, we provide a high-quality, nurturing environment that allows our residents to age in place. 

The grounds have long been our pride and joy, showcasing expansive lawns, flowers and plants, mature trees and shrubs started by Dr. Charles W. Culpepper. 

 For fifty years, the garden has provide an haven for our residents. Here, residents find a safe and peaceful environment. Residents can be found taking walks throughout the day, sitting on the benches and enjoying visits with neighbors and family members or working in their raised garden beds. 

The gardens have become even more important in light of the COVID19 pandemic. Many residents are sheltering-in-place and visitors have been restricted from entering the building as a safety precaution. While reducing the risk of contracting COVID19, physical distancing increases the risk of social isolation among residents. Research has suggested that loneliness and social isolation are as damaging to physical health as obesity or smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and 40% of seniors say they feel more lonely since the start of Covid19, according to an April SeniorList poll. The need is more critical than ever. The garden restoration project will provide opportunities for residents to get out of their apartments and enjoy nature, provide safe spaces for visiting with loved ones while observing social distancing and provide programs that increase residents health and wellness such as gardening, walking, nature watching and other outdoor events.  The project will also engage volunteers and community members in leading activities, engaging in educational programs and enjoying the gardens, all of which support greater social engagement and connection with the community for seniors of Culpepper Garden.

Funding raised through this challenge will allow Culpepper Garden to implement the first phase of its garden restoration project which is our Daffodil Lined Walkway. Future Phases will include A Woodland Loop walking trail, a lily pond and benches and pergolas for added seating in the garden. Naming opportunities are also available!  The project will serve approximately 450 low income seniors residing in our 346 Independent Living and Assisted Living apartments. 

With you help we hope to achieve the following outcomes: 

1)Enhance resident’s physical and emotional health by allowing more opportunities for exercise and physical activity achieved through walking, gardening and spending time outdoors enjoying nature. 

2) Improve resident’s overall quality of life, decrease in feelings of depression and isolation and increased communication and contact  with family members by providing a safe space for residents to interact with family members while practicing social distancing. 

3) Increased environmental stewardship, education and volunteerism among residents and community members 

Your support will truly make a difference for vulnerable seniors, now and in the future!