On Sunday, May 28, 2000, ground was broken at the Hampshire Regional YMCA for the creation of a memory garden - a community space where anyone can donate a plant or shrub in the memory of a loved one.

Using land made available by the YMCA, members of The Garden began plantings of perennials and ground cover. The memory garden was designed by landscape architect Nancy Denig and embodies the view that life continues after tragedy.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on June 3, 2000 at the First Annual Walk-a-thon. Families that participate in The Garden program, as well as other area individuals, were on hand to celebrate. Everyone there was appreciative of this wonderful creation - a place where all people can commemorate a friend or family member. Eventually, in addition to the plantings there will be a bench and quiet space for reflection.

The Memory Garden is located near the YMCA's entrance off Massasoit Street and welcomes all who wish to participate either by offering to add a planting or help with maintenance. In addition, The Garden offers community members the opportunity to dedicate a brick with a 3-line inscription in memory or in honor of a loved one. These bricks will border the garden and also be placed next to a donor's planting upon request. If you would like to offer a plant, order a brick, volunteer your gardening skills, or make a donation, please call 413-584-7086 ext. 124, or email us.

Janette Robichaud, Executive Director of the YMCA; Barbara Weiner, Director of The Garden; and Steve Jasinski, President of the YMCA Board of Directors, shared the moment while volunteers and family members at The Garden gathered near. Volunteers at The Garden sang a song for the families titled, "I'll Think of You."

A special plaque was dedicated that will hang on the outside of the YMCA, near the garden. It reads: "The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens, dedicates these plantings in memory of loved ones - June 2001."

On June 4, 2006 a dedication of Bricks of Remembrance was held. Additionally, Barbara Weiner announced her retirement as Executive Director of The Garden and the news that Shelly Bathe Lenn will take over as Executive Director.

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On June 3, 2007, a rededication of The Memory Garden was held. The Memory Garden, which includes bricks of remembrance purchased by local community members, was recently refurbished by local Eagle Scout volunteer Branden Planka of Troop 114 in Southwick, Mass.; Branden took on this project in memory of a family friend, Carl Jez.

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