Exploring the Vibrant Community Through Mount Airy Learning Tree Programs
Mount Airy Learning Tree (MALT), founded in 1980, stands as a testament to the power of community-based learning. Celebrating the diversity of Northwest Philadelphia, MALT brings neighbors together to share a wide variety of ideas, information, and skills in informal learning environments. With a catalog boasting over 200 courses offered three times a year-in the fall, winter, and spring-MALT’s topics range from art to Zumba, reflecting the boundless imagination of its community.
A Hub of Lifelong Learning
MALT's classrooms are as diverse as its course offerings, located in local churches, schools, businesses, homes, and even the great outdoors, such as the Wissahickon and other local points of interest. This adaptability allows MALT to cater to a wide range of learning styles and interests, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
The Annual Hidden Gardens Tour: A Community Celebration
One of MALT's signature events is the Annual Hidden Gardens Tour, a self-paced, self-guided exploration of the community's most beautiful private gardens. This fundraiser supports MALT's mission and offers attendees inspiration from a variety of landscapes featuring perennials, vegetables, native and habitat-friendly plants, and clever solutions to challenging terrain.
A Glimpse into Private Paradises
The Hidden Gardens Tour invites both seasoned gardeners and novices to discover the hidden gems within Mt. Airy. Attendees explore unique private gardens, engaging with gardeners and soaking in the beauty of the vibrant community.
In a recent tour, participants had the opportunity to visit gardens lovingly tended by Vivian Rowe, Dennis Medina, Andrzej Gilewicz, Lois Volta, David Ertz, Barbara Botting, Valerie Glauser, Deborah and Mitch Schwartzman, Friends of Ned Wolf Park, Christopher Peterson, Iris Hagans, Louise Hayes, Tim Thielke, Yu-Chen Hwang, Aviva Kapust, and Rick Hock. Each garden offered a unique perspective on horticulture and design.
Read also: Mount Union Affordability
Native Plant Stroll: Showcasing Local Flora
Adding another layer of interest, the tour includes a special Native Plant Stroll, highlighting front-yard gardens that showcase native flora. Hap Haven played a crucial role in creating the Native Plant Stroll and organizing the native plant education hub at Mt. Airy Coffee Company, enriching the experience for all.
Community Collaboration and Support
The success of the Hidden Gardens Tour hinges on the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of local businesses. The tour expresses gratitude to Maryfran Cardamone for donating her botanical-inspired artwork, Courtney Jewell of Jewels in Bloom for donating a 4-week Fall flower share and a beautiful bouquet, and Calluna Plant & Gifts for a beautiful planter.
Chris Peterson, owner of Mt. Airy Coffee Company, is appreciated for providing a welcoming stop on the tour, while Rob Pelszynski made everyone feel welcome at the after-tour party.
Flowerfest and Spring Glow: Additional Community Events
Beyond the Hidden Gardens Tour, MALT offers other engaging events. Flowerfest! and Spring Glow! are examples of community activities that encourage participation and creativity.
Salsa Meets "Simon Says": Exploring Dance and Culture
MALT's commitment to diversity extends beyond gardening and into the realm of dance and culture. One such offering is a class exploring the vibrant world of Salsa, specifically the Cuban style known as Casino.
Read also: Maximize Your Summer Learning
Rueda De Casino: A Communal Dance Experience
Rueda De Casino is a communal dance style designed for a group of dancers, all working together with the help of a "Caller," very much like Square Dance, but with a Salsa twist. Think of it as "Salsa meets 'Simon Says.'" While challenging, it's an incredibly fun and engaging way to experience Cuban culture.
Marck “Flaco” Best, a dance instructor, demonstrated line dancing and brought a group of dancers from his dance studio, Flaco’s Dance Factory in Jenkintown, to join the fun.
MALT's Impact on the Community
MALT serves as a vital resource for the residents of Northwest Philadelphia, fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for lifelong learning. By offering a diverse range of courses and events, MALT enriches the lives of its participants and contributes to the vibrancy of the neighborhood.
Read also: History of the Former College
tags: #mount #airy #learning #tree #programs
