July 1, 2013
For about ten years now, Lowe’s stores around the country have been participating in a program known as Lowe’s Heroes. This program gives Lowe’s employees, as well as other volunteer groups, the chance to come together and make a difference in communities across this great nation. As recently as June 19, 2013, Lowe’s Heroes was at it again, this time donating its time to the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) in Zionsville, Indiana. They weren’t alone however, as a team from our very own Infinity Lawn and Garden – Country Stone family answered the call to help in the making of a beautiful new garden landscape for the staff and children of BACA to enjoy for years to come. Founded in 2009 by Dr. Carl Sundberg, BACA focuses on providing the most effective applied behavior analysis services to children and young adults with autism. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for all their members through the teaching of language, social, self-help, academic, daily living, and life skills. Through its research and tireless efforts, BACA is doing extraordinary things for those with Autism and overall making a better world for current and future individuals diagnosed with Autism.
Once the project was completed, an interview took place with Infinity Lawn and Garden – Country Stone employee, Ben Anderson, who speaks of his involvement with the project. That interview went as follows:
➢ Q: Who was all involved in the project?
➢ A: There were numerous different group involved of which included: Lowe’s associates, volunteers from BACA, and Infinity Lawn and Garden – Country Stone employees.
➢ Q: How long have you been contributing to Lowe’s Heroes Projects?
➢ A: We have been involved in two projects over the past two years. This project at BACA and (The other project).
➢ Q: How do you select a location?
➢ A: The Lowe’s Hero Program sets up the location within their local community. Their mission is to transform lives one community at a time.
➢ Q: What product was used to complete the garden landscape?
➢ A: To finish the project, the Homestead Series of concrete block was used. The series is comprised of four antiqued, old cottage style varieties: wall stones, edgers, patio blocks, and pavers.
➢ Q: How long did it take to complete the project? What dates did it take place?
➢ A: The project was completed over the course of 3 days because of the dedication and work ethic of those involved. The project began on June 19th and was finished by June 21st.
➢ Q: Were there any special moments during the project?
➢ A: There were numerous special moments throughout this amazing process. The first moment that comes to mind is when the children of BACA brought out no-bake cookies that they had made for us to enjoy. Another special moment was when all the children and instructors came out to the garden when it was nearly finished to enjoy the space and take in their new outdoor landscape area. Parents also stopped by throughout the project to lend support and express their enthusiasm and excitement. Finally, the most rewarding experience of the project was hearing the story of Jeff, a student who passed away last year at the age of 19, from his mother who was the driving force behind attracting the Lowe’s Hero Program in the first place. Once completed, the entire garden landscape was dedicated in Jeff’s honor.
This is just a small sample of all the good that Lowe’s and Infinity Lawn and Garden – Country Stone are doing together. Their commitment to bettering communities in their respected areas shows that when we work together we can truly make the world a better place for ourselves and future generations.