Community members in Wenatchee now have a place to grow their own food, thanks to Wenatchee Adventist Church.
The community garden, called The Edge, is more than just a community garden; it’s a shift in perspective based on Lev. 19:9–10: “When you harvest, leave the edges for those who are poor and aliens.” This simple yet profound idea speaks to the importance of leaving room for others. In a world often consumed by scarcity and isolation, The Edge serves as a powerful reminder that generosity can turn barren spaces into places of connection, growth and hope.
“The Edge began with the idea that if the edges of our properties, our time and our lives were surrounded by generosity, then hunger and isolation would diminish,” said Troy Fitzgerald, Wenatchee Church pastor.
Fitzgerald first began The Edge in 2014 at Walla Walla Valley Academy, where it operated for three years. In 2021, work began on a new garden across the street from Walla Walla University Adventist Church. When Fitzgerald moved to Wenatchee in 2024, he brought The Edge idea with him.
The Wenatchee project began with a locally funded garden behind Avamere Retirement Center, transforming a vacant plot of land into a flourishing community garden.
As roots in the garden grew deeper, so did interactions between residents, their families and volunteers. One resident shared with a volunteer how the growing garden has given them hope while going through difficult changes.
Shortly after The Edge started in Wenatchee, word of a garden offering free vegetables only a mile away from campus spread to local college students. Students began regularly coming to pick vegetables they couldn’t afford elsewhere or to relax in between their studies.
One volunteer shared how residents often stopped to chat, reminiscing about their own gardening experiences. “It’s a beautiful thing,” she said. “This garden brings everyone together.”
“My favorite story from the garden is when I found Hector, a local taco vendor, quietly gathering ingredients for his business from the garden,” said Fitzgerald. “When I said hello, Hector nervously explained how he was trying to make ends meet and how his kids needed shoes and school supplies. He said he didn’t want to take too much. I listened and reassured him that this garden was made for moments like this, leaving room for a little more.”
Hector’s story reflects the heart of The Edge’s mission: It’s not about who benefits more or less; it’s about creating space for others to thrive, whether through a fresh meal, a moment of relief or the simple joy of connection.
“The Edge is a living reminder that when we leave room for others, life flourishes — not just in soil, but in our hearts and communities,” said Fitzgerald. “In these last months, I’ve been amazed to watch generosity, connection and joy grow in ways I could never imagine.”
Serving one’s community is very much a part of the Serve One More project at Upper Columbia Conference. If you would like to join the mission to serve one more, either by volunteering, donating or simply sharing the harvest, see serveonemore.org.
The garden provides food, friendship and purpose for the local community.
In addition to fresh produce, the garden also includes flowers.
Volunteers of all ages generously contribute to the community garden.
