© Alexa Palmerini

A cacophony of birdsong greets the morning visitor to West Side Community Garden as the city melts away and the natural world emerges. The ebb and flow of activity continues in the garden space throughout the day: volunteers weed and water the flower beds; friends meet to share a cup of coffee; others sit quietly and read a book or eat lunch.

Sandwiched between two apartment buildings and spanning the width of a block, the garden is a lush passageway between 89th and 90th Street, offering a momentary oasis from city life for those passing through on their way to errands elsewhere in the neighborhood.

The maintenance of the garden is an all-volunteer activity, and from its origins, WSCG has brought together Upper West Siders from all walks of life. Garden members actively reach out to ensure that all neighbors – residents, local schools and social service providers – take advantage of the special events and activities, school vegetable plots, and shaded garden seating areas.

Many members remark that as part of the garden community they feel free to relax and be themselves. Each July 4th, garden lovers come together for a barbeque and potluck, sharing whatever they can bring, from a bag of chips to their favorite dish. The garden also hosts other events, including the tulip festival, movie night, Shakespeare performances, the arts and crafts festival, and a variety of concerts. It is the sense of close community and friendships discovered that keeps members involved in, and committed to, the garden.