Cultivating Futures: Celebrating Our Third Landscaping and Restoration Training Cohort!

We’re proud to share that the third cohort of Power To Be’s Landscaping and Restoration Training program celebrated their graduation at the end of July! 

Over the course of 12 weeks, participants gained valuable skills and knowledge to support their future paths – whether pursuing careers in landscaping and restoration or continuing to nurture their passion for nature in other meaningful ways. 

This transformative program is led by our dedicated facilitators, Kallie Laycock and Erin Miller, who bring a rich blend of expertise and heart to their work. Kallie, nearing completion of her Master of Counseling, has years of experience in adaptive recreation. Erin holds a Red Seal in Horticulture and is close to completing her undergraduate degree in Anthropology and Environmental Science. 

Throughout the program, participants explored a wide range of topics, including: 

• Plant identification and care: Learning how to recognize and maintain healthy plant life. 

• Ornamental and native species: Understanding how different plants interact with their environments. 

• Indigenous plant knowledge: Gaining insight into the cultural significance of local plants through teachings from Indigenous Knowledge Keeper JB Williams, the PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ Foundation, and Satinflower Nurseries. 

• Permaculture and growing food: Practicing sustainable growing methods with guidance from Bethany of The Garden Alchemist and Hatchet & Seed. 

• Tool safety and maintenance: Hands-on experience with various hand tools and electric equipment. 

• Greenhouse work and propagation: Collaborating with Horticulture of the Pacific and touring the Butchart Gardens to deepen appreciation for plant cultivation. 

• Creative plant design: Designing and assembling hanging baskets at Patio Gardens. 

• Career development: Building job skills and receiving support from WorkBC.
  
• Community building: Forming lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.

We are truly grateful to our partners who helped make this journey possible: Habitat Acquisition Trust, Compost Education Centre, Anna the Occupational Therapist, Seabluff Farm, Life Cycles, Rocky Point Bird Observatory, Fort Rodd Hill/BC Parks, Heart Lake Farm, and FED Urban Garden.

And of course, this program wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our funders – thank you to CIBC Foundation for supporting our program since its inception, as well as WorkBC Victoria/Saanich, the Blidner Family Foundation, Urban Systems Foundation, and the Co-operators Community Funds for believing in the power of nature, learning, and community.