There’s something quietly powerful happening at Nelson Park in Sterling Heights, and it involves tomatoes, basil, and a whole lot of purpose.
Genisys Credit Union is back for round two of its partnership with Dutton Farm, funding community garden beds where adults with disabilities are learning skills, building confidence, and literally reaping what they sow. And this year, they’re expanding from two beds to three—including a new raised bed that makes gardening more accessible for everyone involved.
It’s the kind of initiative that checks all the boxes: community impact, genuine inclusion, and fresh produce that actually helps people. No corporate buzzword bingo needed.
More Than Just Growing Food
For the clients at Dutton Farm—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting adults with disabilities—these garden beds represent something bigger than a few green bell peppers (though last year’s harvest was pretty impressive). It’s about showing up, contributing, and feeling like a valued part of the community.
Last season, the team maintained two in-ground beds that produced tomatoes, basil, peppers, and more. They tended the gardens weekly, then donated some of the harvest to families in need and sold the rest at their farm market. Talk about full circle.
“Dutton Farm is proud to partner with Genisys Credit Union for the Community Gardens in Sterling Heights—a space where our participants in our Macomb location can grow fresh vegetables, learn new skills, and cultivate community,” said Kim Staudacher, Director of Development at Dutton Farm. “This partnership not only enriches our programming, but also empowers individuals of all abilities to connect with nature and contribute meaningfully.”
Planting Seeds of Belonging
Genisys Credit Union isn’t just writing checks and walking away. Their 2026 investment includes that new raised bed specifically designed to make gardening more accessible—a detail that shows they’re actually listening to what the community needs.
“Our partnership with Dutton Farm is a commitment to creating a community where everyone feels a true sense of belonging,” said Jackie Buchanan, President and CEO of Genisys Credit Union. “The Community Garden is a story of what we can achieve when we join together and cultivate purpose, demonstrating the strength to serve takes the support of many.”
The Garden Itself Is Worth a Visit
If you haven’t checked out the Sterling Heights Community Garden at Nelson Park yet, you’re missing out. The space opened in spring 2025 and features over 115 garden beds, plus a children’s garden, native plant areas, a bee apiary, a butterfly conservatory, a microforest, and public art. It’s basically a community hub disguised as a garden.
Beyond banking, Genisys Credit Union is deeply involved in their communities—logging over 7,700 volunteer hours annually and partnering on more than 1,600 community events each year.
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