Wheeling Park District and NWSRA Celebrate Opening of Accessible Greenhouse During Earth Day Celebration
Wheeling, IL — April 27, 2025 — Wheeling Park District and Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) proudly celebrated the grand opening of a new accessible greenhouse during a special Earth Day Celebration on April 27. The ribbon-cutting ceremony served as a proud moment for the community to come together and celebrate a shared vision brought to life.
Designed to be a living, growing environment accessible to individuals of all abilities, the greenhouse features raised garden beds, paved concrete floors for ease of movement with mobility devices, hydroponic towers for soil-free farming, and compost bins to promote hands-on learning about sustainability.
“This isn’t just a greenhouse, it’s a vibrant space where people can learn, grow, and connect,” said Andrea Griffin, Superintendent of Recreation at NWSRA. “Through engaging programs, participants will be able to develop skills in plant biology, environmental responsibility, and horticulture, while building friendships and community connections.”
Vegetables grown in the greenhouse will be donated to local organizations, and seedlings will support accessible gardening initiatives. The project was made possible through the strong partnership between Wheeling Park District and NWSRA, and thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Special Leisure Services Foundation (SLSF).
Jan Buchs, Executive Director of the Wheeling Park District, shared, “This accessible greenhouse reflects our mission to provide memorable experiences in parks and recreation that enrich our communities. We are incredibly proud to see this facility become a reality.”
The event was further honored by the participation of Representative Tracy Katz Muhl (D-57th District), as well as the support of Senator Adriane Johnson (D-30th District), who was represented at the event. Wheeling Park District and NWSRA are grateful for their commitment to accessibility, recreation, and environmental stewardship.
The new facility is expected to become a vital space where families, volunteers, and participants can connect with nature and with one another, celebrating both personal growth and environmental responsibility.
Tracy Katz-Muhl, Illinois State Representative – District 57 | Claudia Fonseca, Wheeling Park District Commissioner | Mike Burns, Wheeling Park District Board Vice President | Brian Lichtenberger, Wheeling Park District Commissioner | Sara Milashus, NWSRA Participant | Sue Stein, Wheeling Park District Board President | Michael Campbell, NWSRA Participant | Paul Zangara, Wheeling Park District Commissioner | Isaac Brubaker, Wheeling Park District Commissioner | Terri Oates, SLSF Board Trustee | Cheri Klump, Wheeling Park District Commissioner | Jan Buchs, Wheeling Park District Executive Director | Andrea Griffin, NWSRA Superintendent of Recreation