Harvesting Hope: Orchard Seva at MA Center Chicago

At MA Center Chicago's thriving apple orchard, the spirit of service blossoms alongside nearly 300 fruit trees. Since 2014, this chemical-free sanctuary has been cultivated with care by dedicated volunteers who embrace sustainable farming practices.

This harvest season, volunteers have gathered hundreds of apples, transforming them into dried fruits, delectable desserts, and nourishing meals. The dried apples, available at Saturday satsang, help the community feel connected to the beautiful 142-acre MA Center Chicago property. 

Many of the orchard's apples find their way into the the MA Center Chicago Mother's Kitchen program, providing fresh, organic produce for local hunger relief efforts. The program exemplifies the Center's commitment to addressing food insecurity in the community.

Volunteers of all ages play a vital role in the orchard's success, with our ABK and AYUDH youth groups actively participating in tree maintenance and harvest activities. Their involvement helps ensure the orchard's legacy while fostering environmental stewardship and community service values in the next generation. The MA Center Chicago orchard stands as a testament to how sustainable agriculture and the attitude of service can come together to create positive change - one apple at a time.

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