46 JUNE 2026 | INTHEVUE.COM to those in need are such a vital and necessary step to continuing to grow a thriving community, and we’re thankful he’s part of it.” Even though this project pushed him outside of his comfort zone – never planning something of this scale or sought donations for a project before – Griffin never backed down from completing it. Plus, he believes he gained even more skills from this experience as a whole. “I believe I will carry into the future the ability to strategize and plan projects,” said Holland. “It will hopefully be very useful in the future.” Even when things may get busy or overwhelming, Griffin makes it known that he will always find ways to give back to his community. “Community service is very important to me. I am continuing to volunteer at PCM and to water the plants in these beds,” said Holland. “I hope to serve my community however I can going forward.” Griffin hopes this project shows the community that people can “just do things,” as he puts it. You don’t have to be an expert in woodworking or gardening right away to make a difference. He said there are countless resources online, along with people willing to help if you feel lost. You just have to be willing to ask. Most of all, Griffin hopes projects like this remind people that meaningful change doesn’t always have to start on a large scale. Sometimes, it begins with a few people willing to give their time, lend a hand, and invest in the place they call home. Through building the raised garden beds, Griffin said he’s learned just how impactful community involvement can truly be, and hopes others feel inspired to do the same. “If people felt more empowered to improve their communities, I think we would be in a better place,” said Griffin. “Personally, I saw how possible it is to improve your community, you can too.” Sarah really encourages parents to find a regular way for their kids to get involved. Not just a one-off project, but a way for them to build connections and relationships with an organization in town. “It has made such a difference for Griffin to be a real part of PCM,” said Sarah. Volunteers are a core component of PCM and key to being able to provide vital services to so many neighbors in the community. “There are many people that have hands and hearts to serve, but don’t know where to get started, and that’s where we come in,” said William Brandon of PCM. In 2025, they had 338 volunteers providing 7,858 hours of service. Brandon says they see a lot of students come through for certain projects or community service hours needed, but not often on a consistent basis. Griffin, though, is different from the others. “Griffin comes in with a plan, knows what to do, and does it with confidence. He fits right in, and we are so excited to have him come in every single week,” said Brandon. “We hope the work he does here extends well beyond our doors, and we know it will.” Brandon remembers being the same age as Griffin and feeling like the world was on his shoulders and he was just trying to hold it up. “To see him take the challenges of growing up and going to school and being involved in things also outside of PCM, how can I not be inspired and want to do more myself?” said Brandon. “The younger generations finding new ways to provide and cater Planting
