By Natasha Fujimoto
TRIUMPHANTLY recognised for their innovative vision and hard work in creating the Sprout Healthy Lifestyle Garden and Outdoor Education Centre, the Kiwanis Club of Shepparton Sunrisers have been honoured during a presentation ceremony in Indianapolis, USA, for their exceptional vision.
Claiming the coveted silver medal for the Kiwanis International Signature Project Awards, the Sunrisers were selected from a pool of 425 clubs of a similar size for their innovative project.
Located just behind KidsTown , the Signature Project is a veritable garden of Eden for families, schools and community organisations and is replete with edible natives and exotics as well as educational facilities designed to promote healthy eating, active lifestyles and well-being.
Pleased as punch about the award, signature project leader, Felicity Butcher said, “As volunteers, we care about our community and work towards having a positive impact. We don’t seek accolades however; the Signature Project Silver Award engenders a whole host of positive outcomes for both the Club and the community.”
Humbled by the award, the silver medal has invigorated the club’s long-term vision for the Sprout Garden and confirms the project’s lasting benefits for the community now, and well into the future, Felicity said.
Having sown the first seeds for the Sprout Garden five years ago, the project has not only drawn the community together to combat childhood obesity but has also strengthened the bonds of the Club through collaboration.
“Winning the silver medal has demonstrated that a small club in country Victoria can be recognised at an international level because it is part of a global organisation of volunteers, and it engenders pride in our club and what we can achieve working together.” Felicity said.
