Sometimes, the most exotic plants can bloom right in your own backyard. Or, maybe, down the street in the community garden.
With people, too, it’s hard to tell how far their roots are stretching. Eduarda Schroder was born in Mozambique, moved to Portugal, then on to New Jersey as a young woman. For the past 15 years, she’s been in westChandler, raising her family and popping up in the most surprising places.
“I started volunteering in my daughters’ classrooms at Cielo, like most moms,” says Schroder. “Then treasurer for the PTO, then the PSC (Parent Superintendent Council), then on to the Parent Network, then the Arts Council for Youth.
“I like to know what’s going on in our schools; there’s always something new and interesting.”
Many Kyrene Corridor residents likely have received Schroeder’s Parent Network bulletins. Or visited the blog she created at www.theparentnetwork.typepad.com to keep parents informed.
And anyone who drives along Warner Road between Rural and McClintock cannot help but notice the Friends in Gasca Gardens community garden, currently lush with greens and color.
A visit to the group’s blog, www.freshoffthevine-figg.blogspot.com , offers a window to Schroeder’s photography.
While her talents and energy seem to get the most attention, local non-profits are noticing Schroeder for her generosity and creativity. She is developing an artisan fiber-arts business and steadily donates to local charities, primarily to support public education and community building.
“I am interested in challenging myself, always stretching my abilities,” Schroeder says. “And it’s fun to share the results.”
Schroeder has shared her quilted creations with the Taste of Kyrene and a Rockabilly Chili event. Her latest will be available through the silent auction at this year’s Arts Jam, taking place at Mountain Pointe High School 5-9 p.m. Friday, March 2.
Proceeds will support public school arts programs.
“I’ve lived all over the world, with different languages, different politics, different freedoms, different everything. But through it all, art and music and creativity connect people and make them smarter and happier.
“I can’t imagine a life without arts in it.”
For more information on her work, visit thepinkneedle.blogspot.com . Or grab some for yourself at the Arts Jam silent auction, information at www.artsjam.org .
— Contributed by Jennifer Doering
