It’s spring in Florida. And the Lowe’s Company is generously bringing blooms to the teens seeking rehabilitative care at the Grove Counseling Center’s Winter Springs Academy.
The Grove Academy, established in 1987, is a voluntary residential program that addresses the physical, psychological and social needs of adolescents with serious alcohol or drug problems and helps them build a foundation for long-term recovery. A normal day at The Grove Academy includes individual counseling, small group counseling, school, physical and health education, life skills courses, Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, and personal time for relaxation and reflection.
Lowe’s Home Improvement proved true to their motto of ‘building something together’ this spring by donating mulch and plants to reinvigorate the grounds of The Grove Academy.
The project began when Scott Thigpen, Program Director at The Grove Academy, approached the store manager of his local Oviedo Lowe’s store, Justin Lopez. “I used my cell phone to show him the spots that needed work.”
Lopez wanted to see more. Soon after, he made a personal visit to The Grove Academy to see the landscape and facilities for himself. “I don’t live far from The Academy,” says Lopez. “And that’s what Lowe’s is all about – taking care of our own communities.”
Thigpen says, “Lowe’s didn’t waste any time. I couldn’t believe Justin came out personally to take a look at our campus. We want our facility to be warm, inviting, and therapeutic for clients and their families. I’m really grateful on behalf of all the clients and staff at The Grove.”
Lopez is pulling for The Grove Academy to be adopted by the Lowe’s Heroes program, which encourages its employees to team together and make a difference with non-profits and public schools in their area. “We’re looking to do even more for The Grove.”
