top of page
All Posts
Gardener Spotlight: Brianna Johnson (Plot 47)
For first-year gardener Brianna, growing a garden has become a family affair. A Chicago native, proud girl mom, lifelong learner, and self-described plant lover, Brianna came to Maxwell Street Community Garden ready to turn years of curiosity into hands-on experience. What started with research, gardening books, and a carefully planned 4×8 plot has grown into something even more meaningful: a place where she and her daughters can learn together, connect with their community,
Dawn McKenzie
Aug 254 min read
Gardener Spotlight: Ticina Williams (Plot 30)
After years of connecting Chicagoans to local food as a farmers market manager, Ticina “Ti” Williams decided it was time to get her own hands dirty. Now in her first season at Maxwell Street Community Garden, Ti is turning her passion for urban agriculture into practice—learning to grow food, battling a few garden pests, and discovering an even deeper connection between food and community.
Dawn McKenzie
Aug 193 min read
Comb to Counter: Beekeeping at MSCG
A little bit about the process to harvest honey along with a Honey Lavender Cold Brew Recipe and a whole lot of photos
Bettina Zerante
Aug 43 min read
June in the Garden: Growth Takes Root
June was all about growth—both in the garden and in our community! From welcoming 30 new gardeners and filling every plot to planting cool-season crops, launching summer programming, and creating new community growing spaces, the Maxwell Street Community Garden is buzzing with life. Read our June recap to see what we've been growing together.
Dawn McKenzie
Jul 292 min read
Gardener Spotlight: Jason Romine (Plot 44)
Scientist, marathon runner, fragrance maker, and self-proclaimed owner of "dirt in his blood," Jason brings curiosity—and a lot of gardening know-how—to Maxwell Street Community Garden. Discover how a farm kid from Ohio turned six grocery bags of lettuce into one of the season's biggest harvests, and why he'll always make room for a few more green beans (and maybe a volunteer salad).
Dawn McKenzie
Jul 293 min read
Gardener Spotlight: Paula Bosak & Jon Gulden (Plot 28)
What began as a recommendation from a coworker has blossomed into one of Paula and Jon's favorite daily routines. From harvesting their first vegetables and mastering the art of tomato pruning to making new friends (and dodging a few curious bees), their first season at Maxwell Street Community Garden has been filled with learning, laughter, and community. Read how this dynamic duo is growing much more than vegetables.
Dawn McKenzie
Jul 293 min read
Local Engineering Student Discovers Community
Meet one of our 2026 Summer Garden interns from Northwestern University, Antonia Dey.
Antonia Dey
Jul 202 min read
My First Two Weeks at Maxwell Street Community Garden
Meet Betsy Yamile Bejarano, our 2026 Summer Garden intern from Northwestern University.
betsy bejarano
Jul 203 min read
Maxwell Street Community Engagement Report: What We Learned & What Comes Next
This summer, Maxwell Street Garden partnered with Engage Chicago to better understand how gardeners, neighbors, and volunteers experience our shared space. Through interviews and community conversations, the report highlights what’s working well, where barriers exist, and opportunities to grow stronger together. We’re sharing this report transparently and proactively to invite feedback, spark ideas, and continue building a welcoming, connected community garden for all.
Dawn McKenzie
Jan 143 min read
A Flavorful Night of Community & Creativity: Recapping Our Maxwell Street Garden Fall Fundraiser
Our fall cocktail fundraiser brought nearly 50 guests together for garden-inspired drinks, delicious pairings, and community connection—raising $1,700 for the Maxwell Street Community Garden! Led by mixologist and gardener Justine Urbikas, the night highlighted creativity, volunteer spirit, and the flavors of our garden.
Dawn McKenzie
Dec 10, 20252 min read
🌻 A Perfect Day for Harvest Fest at Maxwell Street Garden
The Maxwell Street Community Garden’s annual Harvest Fest on September 21 brought together over 60 neighbors for a day of fun, food, and fall cheer. Guests enjoyed games, local vendors, and raffle prizes under sunny skies and colorful tents. With delicious dishes, community spirit, and plenty of autumn décor, it was a perfect celebration of another successful season in the garden.
Dawn McKenzie
Nov 7, 20252 min read
Growing Together: SISTAMoms & Maxwell Street Community Garden
At Maxwell Street Community Garden, we believe a garden is more than a place to grow food—it’s a space to cultivate community, healing,...
Dawn McKenzie
Sep 26, 20252 min read
A Magical Evening Under the Grapevines: Our August Fundraising Dinner Recap
The beautiful patio dining experience under the grapes arbor. On Wednesday, August 20, Maxwell Street Community Garden came together for...
Dawn McKenzie
Sep 12, 20251 min read
🌱 Celebrating Our Summer Interns: Rita & Winnie 🌱
Pictured left - Rita, to the right - Winnie This summer, the Maxwell Street Community Garden was lucky to welcome two fantastic interns...
Dawn McKenzie
Aug 19, 20252 min read
We’ve Sprouted Something New! Our Brand-New Website is Live!
If the Maxwell Street Community Garden had a diary, this would be one of those “big life events” entries. After all, it’s not every day...
Dawn McKenzie
Aug 11, 20252 min read
bottom of page