The Brant Branch Foresters recognized the need for the residents to have a tranquil accessible outdoor space as part of their daily living and quality of life.
The total cost of the project was estimated to be $111,500.00
Funds were made available from the Trillium Foundation ($50,000), the Brant Community Foundation ($9000.00), the Brant Branch Foresters ($4000.00) and the Royal Bank of Canada ($4000.00). The remainder of the funds is to be fundraised and/or received from donations in kind and volunteers support.

Phase 1 – Tearing it Up - Fall 2008
The entire courtyard was cleared out (compliments of the North Park Collegiate Football Team). The asphalt paths and the dying trees were removed. New paths were dug and made ready to have concrete poured. A water sprinkler system was installed and the concrete was poured. Left to be completed was to level out the dirt moved to pour the concrete and to landscape the area.
Total cost = $64,000.00.
Total Volunteer hours = 664 hours.
While donations and funding was made available, almost all of the funds went towards Phase 1. This left the courtyard still unsafe for the people to access. Although the new concrete was poured, the dirt was not leveled back out making ruts beside the concrete dangerous for the wheelchairs.
Phase 2 – Rotary at Work Day - Spring 2009
Twenty six Rotarians and friends from the three local clubs spent 3.5 hours digging, spreading and raking dirt to level the ground next to the pathways, making the courtyard safe and accessible for the people who live and visit Participation House – 10 Bell Lane site. The area that was shoveled, raked and leveled is approximately 1000 square feet.
Total Volunteer hours = 91 hours.
Phase 3 – Planting and Beautification - Summer/Fall 2009
With donations from local community members and groups we will be able to develop a manageable landscaped area that will include small flower beds, trees, a gazebo and a raised garden for the residents.