Discovering Wildflowers in the Freedom Park

Written by Rocky Xu Cheng

Publish Date: November 7, 2023

The day began with a vibrant energy as we gathered at the edge of Freedom Park, the air buzzing with the excitement of a bustling baseball game nearby. Despite the crowded benches, our team swiftly organized a picturesque picnic area close to the park, strategically positioned to catch the attention of incoming visitors. As we settled in, the delicious spread of food beckoned, offering a delightful start while awaiting the arrival of others joining the expedition.

With everyone grouped and fueled up, the hike commenced. The first leg led us into a mesmerizing forest trail adorned by lingering blooms despite the encroaching winter. The path meandered amidst a spectacle of flowers and reeds, a colorful passage that enchanted all who passed through.

Entering the heart of the forest revealed a stunning sight: towering trees, adorned with remnants of foliage and intermittent blossoming bushes. Amidst this natural wonderland, spiderwebs glistened, adding a touch of mystique to the landscape.

Our journey through the woods guided us to a gated crossroads, prompting a unanimous turn rightward that led us to an exquisite lake. The riverside offered serene moments where we marveled at the grace of storks and cranes, a peaceful interlude that begged for a group photo and some well-deserved snacks to refuel our spirits.

Exiting the forest, we found ourselves at yet another breathtaking opening, marking our reentry into the woodland realm. As we retraced our steps, reminiscing about the wonders witnessed, the anticipation for our final leg heightened.

The trail led us back to our initial picnic spot, completing a fulfilling loop through nature's grandeur. Conversations filled with awe and shared experiences echoed amidst the trees, enriching the hike with a sense of camaraderie and shared adventure.

As we gathered once more at our starting point, the day drew to a close, leaving behind memories of blooming flowers and the majestic, transitioning forest. Moreover, the adventure at Freedom Park wasn't just about the hike in the stunning landscapes; it was about the beautiful interactions that blossomed between our special children and the dedicated volunteers.

Throughout the trail, volunteers offered gentle guidance, patience, and unwavering support, ensuring that every child felt empowered to explore and enjoy the wonders of nature. Their empathy and understanding created a safe space where each child felt included and celebrated for their unique strengths.

Big thanks to the fourteen families with special needs attending the event. The event can only be successful with your trust.

Special thanks to seventeen volunteers: M. Waaiz Anjum, Jeremy Crabtree, Xinyue Dong, Michael Eze, Ava Fang, Evan Fang, Luna Gutierrez, Kunsh Kalra, Mariana Lanz, Martina Lee, Kathryn Lee, Kathy Qin, Subramanian Seenivasan, Winnie Sim, Eakanshi Tripathy, Christina Wu, Keen Zhou for volunteering at the event and making the experience for every participant even better.