The Betty and Jacob Friedman Holistic Garden, nestled next to the Gibbs Recreation and Wellness Center, is a resource for the Rice campus. Leveraging the resources within the Housing and Dining (H&D) department, the garden has positioned itself to promote physical health and mental well-being for all campus community members.
The roots of this partnership date back to 2016, when H&D established its commitment to integrate the garden's yield into the undergraduate servery offerings. This collaboration has expanded beyond merely supplying sustainable ingredients as it also serves as a restful space for the campus community. Its tranquil setting and hands-on gardening experiences offer opportunities to engage with nature, practice mindfulness, and contribute to sustainability. Highlighting Rice’s commitment to inclusivity, adjustments have been made to planters and pathways to ensure accessibility for all community members.
Through workshops, events, and volunteer opportunities within the garden, campus community members can collaboratively converge and cultivate sustainable produce. Engagement opportunities in the garden, such as the "Farm-to-Table" events throughout the year, help students learn how to craft nutritious dishes and source eco-friendly ingredients. Volunteering opportunities are abundant, and anyone wishing to become involved should visit https://garden.rice.edu/volunteer.