The Dandelion Project is a therapeutic gardening program in which maltreated children can escape from their difficult lives and begin to heal from past traumas.

Dandelion Gardeners are 5 to 15 years old and survivors of physical or sexual abuse, domestic violence, abandonment, divorce, or parental drug and alcohol addiction. Many are Children’s Law Center clients but the program is open to all children referred by their Guardians ad Litem and/or case workers.

The Dandelion Project allows these children to work through their problems through hands-on projects and group therapy. By planting tiny seeds and nurturing them into full-grown plants, the children learn to make the world a better place. Organic gardening practices, including composting and maintaining a worm box, hold valuable lessons about diversity and the powerful impact of even the smallest of creatures. By participating in group discussions and activities, developing friendships with other abused and neglected children and building relationships with adult volunteers, the children begin to feel safe in the garden and realize they are not alone. Once they feel safe, they begin to express their thoughts and feelings without secrecy or shame, and they begin to heal.

Dandelion Project Volunteers make this program possible. Volunteers need not be gardeners but must be willing to get their hands dirty and commit to three hours per week from May through October. During the dormant season, many volunteers help with holiday parties and keep in touch with the children by celebrating birthdays and special accomplishments with them. Background checks are done on all potential volunteers to ensure everyone’s safety. Please email dandelion@law.du.edu for more information.

Special thanks to our major supporters:

• Children’s Legal Advocacy Group at University of Denver Sturm College of Law
• Colorado Garden and Home Show
• Denver Enterprise Center
• Denver Urban Gardens
• Front Range Organic Gardeners
• Kiwanis Club
• National Gardening Association
• Strengthening the Village
• Strings