Cultivar Garden
A Decade of Growth, A New Chapter of Hope
By Bryce Boddie, Executive Director HCFS
As a graduate level social work intern I had the honor of collaborating with 2 nonprofits and planting the first seeds of what would become Cultivar Community Garden in 2014, a partnership between Hill Country Family Services and Hill Country Mission for Health. What grew from those seeds became so much more than anyone could have imagined.
Over the past decade, Cultivar has harvested more than 1,600 pounds of fresh produce for the HCFS pantry, providing nutritious fruits and vegetables to families in our community who need them most. But the true harvest has been the community itself—a dedicated group of volunteers who have cultivated not just plants, but relationships, hope, and dignity.
A Garden on the Move
After more than ten years of faithful service at its original location, Cultivar faced a challenge: the garden needed to find a new home. Change can be daunting, especially when leaving behind a place where so many memories were made and so much good was done. But like the resilient plants our volunteers tend, Cultivar has found a way to take root again.
We're thrilled to announce that Cultivar's new home is right here in HCFS's backyard. Our volunteers—the true heart and soul of this garden—have already broken ground and are growing food in our new space.
Cultivating More Than Vegetables
This move isn't just a relocation; it's an opportunity. With Cultivar now integrated into HCFS's property, we have more chances than ever to grow relationships alongside our crops. The proximity means easier access for volunteers, more visibility for our mission, and greater connection between the garden and the families we serve.
Every tomato, every bunch of greens, every pepper that comes from Cultivar represents something deeper: a community that cares, volunteers who give their time and love, and neighbors helping neighbors thrive.
Join Us in the Garden
Whether you have a green thumb or have never planted a seed in your life, there's a place for you at Cultivar. Our volunteers welcome anyone who wants to dig in, learn, and be part of something that feeds both body and soul.
Together, we'll continue writing Cultivar's story—one season, one harvest, one relationship at a time.
Interested in volunteering at Cultivar Community Garden?
Contact Hill Country Family Services to learn how you can get involved.
Cultivar 2015: Endie, Bryce, & Makeda Boddie planting Green Beans
Cultivar November 2025 @ HCFS