CRHC Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of New Wellness Roots Garden
in CLARINDA, IOWA – May 21, 2025 – On Iowa Kid’s Garden Day
Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) proudly celebrated the official ribbon cutting of the Wellness Roots Garden on May 21st, 2025, a new inclusive outdoor space designed to support health, education, and community engagement.
Located on the CRHC campus, the Wellness Roots Garden is the new home of the Sprouts All Star Program and features fully accessible community garden beds with elements specifically designed to support individuals with sensory needs. The garden reflects CRHC’s mission of Advancing Exceptional Care by promoting wellness and inclusivity across all ages and abilities.
One of the key features of the garden is the Community Garden Space, where individuals and families can sign up to use a garden bed at no cost. It’s a wonderful opportunity for community members to grow their own vegetables, flowers, or herbs, while connecting with others in a supportive and welcoming environment. Those interested can learn more and sign up online by visiting www.clarindahealth.com/dietitian-services.
"This space is more than a garden—it’s a symbol of what happens when a few crazy ideas, a need and commitment to our goal comes together to create something meaningful," said Chuck Nordyke, CEO of Clarinda Regional Health Center. "We are incredibly proud to offer a place where everyone can grow, connect, and thrive."
CRHC extends heartfelt thanks to its Maintenance Team—Scott Warrick, Bryon Peterson, Alex Chambers, Ron Holmstrom, Jake Chambers, and Dillon Chambers—for their tireless dedication to building the garden from the ground up. Special thanks also go to the Wellness Roots Garden Committee, including Emily Furst, Scott Warrick, Amy Roop, Melissa Baier, Dave Fast, Brittney Hill and Emily Bontrager, whose leadership and vision guided the project to completion.
CRHC gratefully acknowledges the generosity and support of Fareway Meat and Grocery and 3D Construction, whose contributions helped bring the garden to life. The event was further enriched by the efforts of the Iowa Kid’s Garden Day Committee—Emily Bontrager, Emily Furst, Bethany Muller, Libby Ehlers and Brittney Hill—who organized a joyful and engaging celebration.
Additional thanks go to Iowa State University Extension and Andrew Hoppman from Clarinda's Lied Public Library for their participation, and to Elaine Farewell with the Clarinda Chamber of Commerce for officiating the ribbon cutting. This is the first garden of its kind at CRHC, with hopes of future expansion. For more information about the garden or to reserve a community garden bed, please visit www.clarindahealth.com.
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About Clarinda Regional Health Center: Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) is a Critical Access Hospital dedicated to Advancing Exceptional Care in rural Iowa. CRHC offers comprehensive healthcare services and wellness initiatives that foster a healthier, more connected community.
