Community organization in horticultural therapy

Community organization in horticultural therapy is a systematic, participatory and people-centred process that aims to unite individuals, groups and institutions for collective action through nature-based initiatives, healing gardens and plant-centered activities that enhance physical, emotional and social well-being. Rooted in social work principles, it provides a structured approach to understanding community needs, mobilizing local resources, building partnerships, and fostering collaboration for sustainable development. The concept emphasizes that communities are not merely geographic entities but dynamic groups bound by shared interests, culture, challenges and aspirations; therefore, effective horticultural therapy interventions must begin with a clear understanding of community characteristics, socio-ecological contexts and stakeholder diversity. The process generally starts with community profiling, which involves mapping demographic details, existing resources, environmental conditions, health indicators, vulnerable groups and institutional linkages.