GVLP celebrates Earth Day at the ReWild LI Dodge Homestead

By Adhvaith Sreenivas

On Earth Day, we gathered at the historic Thomas Dodge Homestead—volunteers from ReWild Long Island and members of the YICG Gita Vicara Leadership Program (GVLP)—united by a shared purpose: to connect with nature and learn the principles of sustainable gardening.

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After a few warm icebreakers and some inspiring words from ReWild Board President Raju Rajan, we split up into teams to take on various hands-on projects in the garden, guided by the dedicated ReWild volunteers.

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Some of us rolled up our sleeves and tackled invasive plants and stubborn weeds, carefully clearing them from the garden beds...

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Others measured and assembled sturdy shelves to proudly display native plants for sale...

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A third group replenished flower beds with nutrient-rich soil, preparing them for new life...

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And a few took on the earthy, essential task of composting the discarded plant matter, giving back to the soil in the most natural way.

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As we worked, we felt a wave of calm wash over us. Gardening seemed to be an outlet of escape from day-to-day troubles and frustrations. Some even said they preferred gardening with friends over hanging out at the mall or gaming. It was a refreshing way to bond while doing something meaningful!

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After the projects were completed, we regrouped to share reflections on what we’d worked on and learned throughout the day. And as a special finale, we proudly presented Raju with a $2,000 donation—funds we raised through our GVLP ReWild Golf Tournament and Ramayana Hike initiatives.

If you're curious about sustainable gardening and eager to make a difference while having fun, we encourage you to check out the ReWild Long Island summer internship program on their website or stop by the Thomas Dodge Homestead (58 Harbor Rd, Port Washington, NY) on Saturdays from 9–11 A.M. to volunteer!

Reflections

Ashka Shah: “I had a great time today! It was a really good experience to actually get into nature especially given how much time I’ve been spending inside/on my device doing schoolwork. Very grateful 😇”

Bhuvi Kumar: “For me personally, the hands on aspect was such a breath of fresh air! It was great being able to step outside from a busy schedule and really appreciate nature up close… was able to learn plenty and pick up some good tips for my own garden as a bonus ! 🤩”

Sanskriti Rathore: “I had the best time ever today! Not only did I feel like I was helping out but I made new friends and meaningful connections with the people I was working with! Being able to contribute in such a hands-on way really opened my eyes to the bigger picture of ReWild. From the cutting down of the old and dead plants to taking invasive species out of the beds I truly felt connected to the project!”

Tara Visvanathan: “It was amazing to be in the garden working directly to help ReWild get ready for the Spring! From weeding, to working with the compost, and getting native plants ready to be sold. Everyone pitched in to make a difference! Very rewarding experience that I greatly enjoyed!”