Shout it to the World: LINC VIP Blossoms in Brooklyn

It's finally summer - the grass is greener, the flowers are blooming and people are smiling from ear to ear. It's no surprise that one of LINC's Very Involved Parents (VIPs) is creating brighter days for her community.

Very Involved Parent Elizabeth Figueroa (left) with LINC staff Albania Jimenez, Christie Rosario, and Debora Mulrain.

LINC VIP Elizabeth Figueroa, a community activist in East New York, Brooklyn has been working incalculable hours to maintain the famous Gloria & Maria Garden at 875 Pennsylvania Avenue. The fruits of her labor are rapidly growing as she and her mate, Willie Echevarria encourage residents to plant their own seeds and of course, read to learn more about them.

"I interact with the children and communicate with each child," said Elizabeth, "by the end of the program, I want them to be able to spell the word of the vegetable that we are planting."

With the skills she acquired as a LINC VIP, Elizabeth has developed a popular literacy program in the garden and is helping to build a more equitable and healthy city for our youngest readers. Read more about Elizabeth and Willie's plans for the garden in the Canarsie Courier here.