Walter’s Story: Blossoming Beyond Expectations
Walter’s story shows what happens when opportunity meets support. Through horticulture, he’s building confidence, purpose, and a more independent future.
April 7, 2026
Little City’s Horticulture program is where individuals like Walter go to grow.
Walter is one of the newer participants in Little City’s adult day program, having started in 2025 while still living in a Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) through a different agency.
The transition was not always easy and Jenny Boland, Director of Employment Services at Little City, said Walter would struggle to engage in most activities at Little City’s Center for Employment & Business Opportunities.
“Walter is not always the most eager to try new things or get involved with activities,” Jenny said. “But when he discovered horticulture, he was like a whole new person. Any time he goes to horticulture he is in his element.”
Walter’s passion for horticulture was so strong he quickly became part of the vocational program that requires a higher level of skill and commitment. Jackie Kenyon, Horticulture Specialist, said the first time Walter came to the program he already had the rare ability to identify plants and was comfortable with basic planting skills.
His enthusiasm for the program has been contagious, especially during any given holiday season, where Walter does as much work as he can with displays, crafts, potpourri, and the like to embrace the holiday through horticulture.
“He’s always so excited about getting to work with all the different things we do, especially during those holidays,” Jackie said. “It’s still cold outside and he comes in ready for spring and asking when we can start outside. It gets me excited.”
Wayne Johnson, Horticulture Manager, said the spring season should give Walter even more opportunity to develop new skills. The annual Plant Sale is one of the biggest events for the program, having sold over 2,150 plants in 2025 and looking to do even more this year.
Wayne said the sale will give Walter an opportunity to create big displays and gain some experience in customer service by interacting with customers and learning how to process orders.
Walter’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when the right opportunity meets the right support.
Programs like horticulture don’t just teach vocational skills – they unlock confidence, purpose, and pride. With every plant grown and every display created, participants like Walter are building brighter, more independent futures.