What began as a cocktail napkin idea has blossomed into something extraordinary: Lucy’s Community Garden and Outdoor Classroom. In the heart of Pittsville, sorrow has been transformed into beauty, and loss into lasting legacy. As the ribbon was cut, the community gathered in celebration for the grand opening.
Lucy Vanatta’s life was tragically cut short in a car accident, but her spirit and love for beauty with purpose continue to shine. To honor her memory and her deep ties to both community and schools, the Pittsville School District and the Vanatta family came together to transform a once-empty corner of the school playground. The Marshfield Area Community Foundation offered support through a community grant award. What was once a fenced-off 1,700 square-foot space has been transformed into a welcoming garden and outdoor classroom—a living tribute where students can learn, grow, and be inspired.
The broad-reaching community support throughout the project was deeply appreciated. John Vanatta, Lucy’s father, stated during the construction process, “This would not come together without volunteers willing to give their time.” Standing beside him, Wendy Vanatta, Lucy’s mother, added, “I am overwhelmed by it all.” Students, teachers, and community members helped to build the pergola and make the signage. Students were involved at every step of the way, practicing various skills, including site preparation for cement pouring, structural construction, visual element design, and more.
The new outdoor classroom provides more than a new task space. Students will enjoy a welcoming environment to connect with friends, nurture their well-being, and breathe fresh air. Both logically and metaphorically—learning has stretched beyond classroom walls as students witnessed firsthand how tragedy can be the catalyst for molding something beautiful.
The Pittsville School District now has a special place to gather, learn, and grow together. When the school day ends, this space continues to serve by offering the broader community a peaceful setting for gatherings, walks, reading, or simple reflection.
We heard many words of impact, and in the spirit of what fostered this project, we wanted to include them all:
“This project has made an impact on the community by being something that can bring everyone together. The circumstances under which brought about the idea in the first place was something that brought the community closer together and made us realize what is truly important in life. This project allowed us to create something to physically represent that – learning, community, creativity, and the beauty of life – and a chance for everyone to contribute to it. Whether that was monetary and/or material donations or volunteering, this entire community got to help create the garden that is here today.” -Avery Vanatta, Lucy’s sister
“Being part of this project in remembrance of Lucy has been both a personal honor and a labor of love. Watching this space grow into a garden and outdoor classroom is a beautiful tribute to her memory and the joy she brought to others. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our school, families, community, and local businesses, and I am deeply thankful to all who helped make this vision a reality.” -Kristin Mueller, Pittsville Teacher
“I feel like this project beautifully showcases the light and joy that Lucy brought everywhere she went. She was a ray of sunshine, and the garden reflects her vibrant, lively spirit. I hope the garden is able to be a reminder of the gorgeous soul we lost way too soon. It means the world knowing that her memory is able to live on in our community through this space.” -Kaylee Jacobson, Lucy’s friend and classmate
“This project has really shown how a community can come together and turn a tragedy into something of meaning. This space is meant for memories, activity, and growth. It is a beautiful memory of Lucy, where all are welcome to come.” -Gina Martinovich, Pittsville School Nurse
“The beautiful outdoor learning area, created in memory of Lucy, not only honors her legacy but also serves as a welcoming space for students, staff, and the community to enjoy. It breathes new life into the surroundings, inviting everyone to step outside and appreciate the beauty around us. I have enjoyed helping to bring this idea to fruition and see how it will impact everyone!” -Susy Niehaus, Pittsville teacher
“Lucy’s garden is a place where I can feel close to Lucy, even though she’s no longer here. Just like Lucy, it’s full of life and beauty- making it the perfect way to honor her memory.” -Emma Bowden, Lucy’s friend and classmate
The Foundation is honored to support Lucy’s Garden through a community grant, a project that turns heartache into hope and creates a space filled with love, learning, and connection. A true celebration of Lucy’s spirit and the strength of the Pittsville community, every detail thoughtfully considered, in community for community.
Get involved:
To learn more about our community grants, click here.
To donate to community projects like this, click here.