The Ching Community Gardens celebrated its one-year anniversary on December 31, 2023, marking a significant milestone in community engagement and environmental restoration in the Shoreline area. This initiative was made possible through nearly three years of collaboration among local residents, GROW as the land trust holder, and the support of the Canlis Restaurant family and the King Conservation District. Throughout 2024, dedicated volunteers participated in weekly work parties, dedicating over 800 hours to restore the garden, removing invasive blackberry and wisteria vines, and enhancing the landscape with sustainable practices. The project gained further traction with the generous donation of 250 bareroot fruit trees, which were distributed to the community, attracting more attention and participation. Diggin’ Shoreline played a vital role in the restoration efforts, serving as the hands-on team that brought the garden to life.

The success of the Ching Community Gardens demonstrates the power of community collaboration and the impact of local initiatives on environmental sustainability. It also highlights the growing trend of urban gardening as a means to foster community bonds and improve local ecosystems. As the garden continues to thrive, it serves as a model for similar projects in other regions.