Due to the threat of rain and severe weather last week, the MLK Days of Service projects were relocated, but still carried out as planned.

Students gathered in Eldridge Hall on the afternoons of Jan. 19 and 20 to build garden beds for the university’s upcoming garden project at Troy Elementary School.

Keri Shaw, a Garden to Schools intern working with Troy University and Troy Elementary, also helped to direct students and oversee the project that she will be working closely with.

“I’m going to be working with the program over at Troy Elementary and helping with the gardens and teaching the fifth grade classes, so I’m kind of watching what we’re getting set up,” she said.

The garden will consist of four sites each containing three beds: one that is raised and handicap accessible and two on the ground.

“Essentially what we’re making is a table that can grow plants.” Jonathan Cellon, associate dean of first year studies, said. “We’ll be planting springtime stuff, like strawberries as well as leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower. It’s projected to be a hot spring so maybe we can do more summer type vegetables.”

Over the two afternoons, students drilled holes and screwed boards together with service to others in mind.

“(Volunteering) while serving others, which is the way Christ taught us to lead is to serve, is a good way to make connections and influence others,” Clay Graham, a sophomore psychology major from Moulton, Alabama, said. “I hope the kids see the fun and the benefit in gardening and growing healthy foods. With these that are handicap accessible, I hope they learn not to exclude others just because they are different.”

Cellon said they plan to install the beds at the school on Feb. 4, weather permitting.