The Unity Exchange Club of Monroe was chartered April 29, by the National Exchange Club. The club focuses on Americanism, community service, children and families, and the prevention of child abuse, according to a community announcement.
The club welcomes members with and without disabilities, aiming to break down barriers and end discrimination through service. It started with about 20 members and is seeking new members from Monroe County.
The club’s first project involved planting a pumpkin patch at the St. Mary Organic Garden. This idea was suggested by member Paul Simonton, who highlighted the spiritual and equitable aspects of gardening. The goal was to provide a hands-on introduction to organic gardening in an inclusive environment.
Members worked together to prepare, plant and tend to the pumpkin patch. They learned about companion planting to protect their crops from pests. During the planting, Sharon McNeil of Monroe led a blessing of the earthworms.
Throughout the summer, club members took turns caring for the garden, as the club does not hold regular meetings in July or August. Recently, they harvested pole beans and pumpkins. Henry Lievens, a Monroe County commissioner and beekeeper, gave a presentation on the importance of pollination. Afterward, members enjoyed a potluck dinner at the gazebo near the garden, featuring the green beans they had grown.
The Unity Exchange Club of Monroe is selling its pumpkins for donations. The pumpkins will be available at the Exchange Club of Monroe’s annual Chili Cook-Off, which is scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Monroe Knights of Columbus, 202 W. Front St. All donations will support local veterans and first responders, community services, youth and families, and the prevention of child abuse.
For more information, contact Don Spencer, president of the Unity Exchange Club of Monroe, at donaldspencer1@gmail.com or 734-625-7216.
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