After two years of the offenders caring for the nursery, the trees would then be replanted on public property throughout the community. It's good for people to work with soil and the earth to grow things. The two groups donated 1,500 trees and planting containers. May helped donate the remainder of the planting containers. Teresa Shirrell, unit manager at the Treatment Center and restorative justice coordinator, felt that a cooperative nursery was a good opportunity to work with the community and the University.
Gardening is a way of therapy and a means to release stress.
According to Shirrell, the offenders are enjoying the service projects and getting excited about them. They feel as if they are getting a chance to give back to the community and their victims. I like working with the community. It's a good contact and a really positive thing. In Spring 2002 the first batch of trees will be replanted throughout the community on public property such a schools, streets and parks.