This Generation Connect (TGC) operates a gathering space and kitchen where stakeholders, businesses, and families can connect with community and share information and resources. They endeavored to expand operations into a neighboring alleyway and transform the space into a community garden. The Social Impact Design (SID) team supported their application to Grow Pittsburgh’s Allegheny Grows Program, funded by Allegheny County Economic Development, that provides new gardens with the skills and materials needed to start successful community gardens. As the project site was a decommissioned street still owned by the Borough of East Pittsburgh, SID coordinated with code enforcement officials and the project team to align priorities with right-of-way restrictions. 

Through this collaboration, the garden aimed to: 

• Cultivate a space for youth leadership, intergenerational learning, and community healing. 
• Blend food production with youth mentorship, wellness education, community art, and play. 
• Create a safe gathering space and living classroom where residents reclaim land, stories, and connection. 

After TGC was selected for the program, SID provided additional community engagement, design, and advocacy services at the front end of the Allegheny Grows process; including reviewing local Borough codes to anticipate zoning or permitting requirements for future implementation and attending Borough council meetings to present design iterations on behalf of the community. Final SID deliverables focused on conceptual designs that centered This Generation Connect’s broader vision for the site, while allowing Grow Pittsburgh to take the lead on garden-specific implementation in early 2026. What resulted was a holistic design that ensured the community’s full vision was represented, and that fundraising could begin for the elements not typically covered by the Grow Pittsburgh grant.  

Equity-Centered Design support came from Jennifer Senchak at Restoreth Roots. An experienced arborist and sustainable landscape designer, Jen lent both her environmental expertise and enthusiasm for community engagement throughout the project. During early site preparation, Jen coordinated a Pennsylvania 811 call to have underground utilities marked and accounted for in the design process, while also advocating how the design could better serve the existing trees. She also helped educate folks participating in the design process on tree maintenance options, stormwater management strategies, rainwater reuse, and culturally inclusive planting opportunities.   

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Supporters

Grow Pittsburgh, Restoreth Roots, Borough of East Pittsburgh

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The Team: