NordPlus Horizontal Project "Growing Together: Inter-Generational Collaboration in Community Gardens" is an inspiring international project, bringing together elderly gardeners and students with special educational needs (SEN). In partnership with NGOs from Estonia, Lithuania and Finland, as well as a Lithuanian SEN school, the project fosters inclusion, community engagement, and environmental education through urban gardening. Elderly volunteers will share their skills and knowledge with SEN students, offering both groups meaningful social interaction and valuable learning experiences. The project includes preparation of instruction manual, training sessions, and gardening lessons. The journey will culminate in an international conference in Vilnius to share experiences and outcomes. Funded by NordPlus Horizontal (project NPHZ-2025/10103), the project runs until August 2026 and aims to build a lasting network of inclusive urban gardens across Estonia, Lithuania, and Finland.

Project Partners

Tartu Community Garden (Estonia)
Žinių kodas / Knowledge Code (Lithuania)
Vilnius Verkiai School – Multifunctional Center (Lithuania)
Teiskon Salonsaari Cooperative (Finland)

Project Results

Activity 1. Kick-off meeting in Estonia (July 2025)

Activity 2. Guidebook for urban gardening SEN instruction

Activity 3. 2-day training and workshop in Finland

Activity 4. National Study Circles for Elderly Gardeners

Activity 5. Gardening sessions with SEN students

Activity 6. National Harvest Festivals

Activity 7. International seminar in Lithuania

Activity 8. Final Evaluation Meeting in Lithuania