Throughout July and August, teams of local volunteers surveyed neighborhoods to identify landscapes deserving of recognition. Their efforts culminated in the distribution of 135 BLOOM garden signs to homeowners across the region. Homeowners who returned survey postcards were entered into a raffle for Chautauqua Chamber Gift Certificates, with forty lucky winners receiving prizes valued at up to $100.

Launched in 2019, the BLOOM Garden Recognition Project has steadily grown in popularity, drawing attention from both residents and summer visitors who admire the cheerful BLOOM signs and meticulously maintained landscapes. Feedback from this year’s participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with comments such as, “Your program gives people an incentive to beautify and improve their landscaping,” “Very much appreciated,” and “Such fun and a blessing to our towns.” One participant added, “We look forward to Bloom 2025!” while another expressed gratitude by saying, “Thank you for recognizing our efforts. We love and appreciate our BLOOM canvas bag and yard sign.”

“NCCF is immensely grateful to the garden stewards and volunteers who made this year’s BLOOM project a vibrant success,” said Eileen Ardillo, Program Coordinator. “Their leadership and dedication have inspired community pride and unity throughout northern Chautauqua County.”

The BLOOM Garden Recognition Project is a Neighborhood Revitalization Project of NCCF. For more information about the BLOOM Garden Recognition Project, contact Eileen Ardillo at 716-366-4892 or eardillo@nccfoundation.org.

Pictured is one of the homes that were recognized as part of the project.

Since its incorporation in 1986, the NCCF has invested more than $21 million in northern Chautauqua County through strategic grantmaking, targeted scholarships, and leadership and community collaborations. The NCCF is a tax-exempt charitable organization inherently committed to enhancing the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy. As a nationally accredited community foundation, the NCCF has proven compliance with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, demonstrating integrity, equity, accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in meeting the needs of its community. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation.org or call 716-366-4892.