Morrowtown Community Group
Burlington, NC     Spring 2025    Community Center
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About the Organization

The Morrowtown Community Development Group, a community-led nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status, was founded by two women who experienced the loss of family members due to gun violence, with the mission of improving their community. In 2021, a survey revealed strong community interest in a garden, leading to the establishment of a thriving vegetable garden, made possible by the efforts of Elon University students and plant donations from local stores. The garden serves as a space to teach local youth about gardening, plant life cycles, and where their food comes from, while fostering responsibility.

The Morrowtown Community Group’s mission is to Educate, Empower, and Encourage through acts of service and giving, utilizing the skills and talents within the community to create a safe and united neighborhood. Our vision is to change the narrative and perception of the Morrowtown neighborhood by fostering unity and addressing key issues such as environmental blight, food insecurity, violence, and drug use.

In October, the group hosted a Red Ribbon Week event titled “Plant the Promise,” where local children participated in an activity to learn about patience and delayed gratification. Just as planting tulip bulbs in the fall results in beautiful flowers in the spring, staying drug-free today can benefit their future.

We are now looking to expand this educational initiative by including lessons on pollinator lifecycles and their crucial role in our ecosystem. With the relocation of a building, we have identified the perfect location for a butterfly garden, to be situated slightly apart from the vegetable garden. Middle school students will assist with planting, and volunteer expert gardeners will provide guidance. The addition of pollinator plants will deepen our community’s connection to nature while enhancing our garden’s educational impact.