Park Programs
Garden Angels
Los Rios Park and Reata Park in San Juan Capistrano are expansive, scenic spaces featuring native plant gardens, winding trails, and peaceful sitting areas. These parks serve as the vibrant backdrop for Goin Native’s garden programs, which enrich the lives of people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities through meaningful connection with nature.
Join us at either park, bring gloves and wear closed-toed shoes. No experience required. If its your first time to volunteer with us, please bring a filled-out copy of the city’s volunteer application.
Contact our park coordinator Weej at weej@goinnative.net for more info.
We look forward to gardening with you!
Children’s Hospital of Orange County
The Goin Native Therapeutic Garden Program is a transformative initiative designed to support the well-being of children receiving inpatient mental health care at CHOC (Children’s Hospital of Orange County). Grounded in the healing power of nature, this program introduces young patients and teens to the joys of gardening and the natural world through hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity, foster connection, and promote growth—both botanical and personal. This one of a kind virtual garden program has grown over the past five years and impacts hundreds of children per year.
Children engaged in the program are invited to participate in guided virtual gardening lessons within a safe, nurturing environment. These sessions include planting seeds, watering, discovering insects, nature crafts, learning about native plants and animals, life cycles, and ecosystems. Activities are tailored to be developmentally appropriate, therapeutic, and engaging, giving children a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Many participants, often dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral challenges, benefit from the calming and grounding experience of connecting with the earth and watching something they nurture come to life.
Beyond horticulture, the program emphasizes mindfulness, observation, and appreciation for the interconnectedness of living things. Through storytelling, sensory exploration, and hands-on gardening, children not only gain knowledge about plant biology and ecosystems but also build resilience, self-esteem, and hope. The garden becomes a metaphor for healing—demonstrating patience, care, and the potential for renewal.
The virtual therapeutic garden program is led by Kristen Colvin; a 20 year professional horticulturist, passionate gardener, former elementary school teacher and mother of five.
