ScottsMiracle-Gro Associate Grows the City That He Loves
By Su Lok, Director of Corporate and Community Partnerships, ScottsMiracle-Gro
In the spring of 2010, our company hosted the first Give Back To Gro volunteer event in the Westbury community of Houston. Our associates transformed this historic neighborhood by installing 50 new garden beds to help feed local residents. More than a decade later, Chris Patten, local ScottsMiracle-Gro sales manager, is leading the charge to continue support for the community he calls home.
We have a strong relationship with the Houston community. Over the years, Scotts has partnered with Keep Houston Beautiful to sponsor several Give Back To Gro community garden and greenspace projects throughout the city. Patten had the opportunity to step into the role as the company’s representative with Keep Houston Beautiful.
“Our Give Back To Gro volunteer support doesn’t just build a garden – it brings the community together to really lift up the neighborhood,” said Patten. “When I started with ScottsMiracle-Gro back in 2013, I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of to help grow this city that I love so much.”
Becky Edmonson, a long-time Westbury resident and community advocate, has lived in the area for more than 30 years. Edmonson first met with the Scotts team to plan the initial garden installation in 2010. Since then she’s continued to work with the Scotts team and Keep Houston Beautiful to ensure that Westbury is sustainable for the next generation.
“The volunteer commitment and dedication from Scotts has been so important to our city,” said Becky Edmonson. “We cannot thank you enough for the friendship and years of support provided to our families.”
For the last six years, Patten has worked alongside Keep Houston Beautiful and other community leaders to keep the Westbury gardens and park area in top condition. His sales colleagues also volunteer their time, along with providing product donations to the garden. Due to COVID restrictions, the Houston team has been unable to volunteer in person since the beginning of 2020. However, they still were able to donate products to support the gardens and keep the Give Back To Gro tradition alive.
“My family, friends and work are all here in Houston, so supporting this community is very important to me,” said Patten. “When it comes to volunteering, my advice is to find that one thing that is special and fulfilling to you. Then jump in and let your passion and enthusiasm for your cause spread to help others.”
