A cactus garden at the ḍar šbab 

This winter and early spring at the ḍar šbab have been our busiest seasons to date.  I was fortunate to have applied for and received a small grant from “The King’s Fund,” established after Moroccan King Mohammed VI donated $100,000 to thank the Peace Corps for all it’s done for the benefit of Moroccan youth.  The donation has been used to fund various small grant projects, including my grant for expansion of our ḍar šbab garden. 

We decided to plant a cactus and succulent garden at the ḍar šbab, which would require less water usage than one of standard plants and flowers.  As we began to clear the lot in preparation for planting, the community came out in full force to assist us.  People of all ages grabbed picks and shovels and broke up the ground for ease of planting.  

Trees and bushes were donated in addition to those purchased with the grant, and assembly lines of youth planted a hedge of rosemary along the garden boundary.  

Young adults from the town’s championship soccer team volunteered to plant and transplant trees.  

Youngsters looked on and assisted while the cactus and succulents were planted. 

They also listened attentively to a speaker who visited to teach about garden upkeep and maintenance.  

In all, we had more than 50 volunteers assist with all stages of garden installation.  Many thanks to all! Youth continue to share in the chores of watering and weeding, and we are hoping to broaden the scope of Garden and Environmental Club activities to include off-site projects and activities.  Perhaps these youngsters have learned some skills they might use in future employment opportunities.