MVSB helps Monarch School students blossom with gardening program

Photo caption below story.

ROCHESTER - MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank) continued its support of the Monarch School of New England with a $5,000 sponsorship for the Horticultural Therapy and Gardening Program recently.

The program provides unique opportunities for students to learn, grow and reach their full potential in a nature-based setting.

"Kathy Perry, our full-time registered horticultural therapist, offers individual and small group therapy catered to each student's goals using gardening activities," said Diane Bessey, Monarch School of New England executive director. "We are thankful for support from community partners like MVSB, which allow us to continue and grow these therapeutic and educational programs that help our students learn in a variety of ways."

"The school expanded their horticultural therapy program with the recent renovation of their beautiful new gardening space, where students learn everything from growing and nurturing plants to cooking and creating art," said Jim Carrigan, MVSB Regional Vice President, Branch & Business Development Manager. "We are extremely proud to show our support for the program with this contribution."

Carrigan, Jolene Whitehead, MVSB Branch and Business Development, and Melissa Clark, MVSB Branch Services Supervisor, regularly volunteer at the school. Whitehead also serves on the Board of Directors.

The Monarch School of New England is based in Rochester and supports students with special needs from more than 30 school districts across New Hampshire and Southern Maine. Their staff members work one-on-one with each individual, uniquely integrating both education and therapy to ensure successful transitions to school and the community. Go to monarchschoolne.org to learn more.

Photo caption: From left, Melissa Clark, MVSB Branch Services Supervisor, Jim Carrigan, MVSB Regional Vice President, Branch & Business Development Manager, Diane Bessey, Monarch School of New England Executive Director, Kathy Perry, Horticultural Therapist and Jolene Whitehead, MVSB Branch & Business Development Manager.