The impact of beloved environmentalist Lou Florence is set to continue long after her upcoming departure from Kennett Square, writes Joan Holliday for The Daily Local News.
Both an artist and environmental educator, Florence’s unique set of skills helped her put numerous initiatives into motion throughout Kennett. Using her core values of creativity and community, Florence not only founded groundbreaking programs, but mentored fellow community members who will continue the work after her upcoming move to Oklahoma.
Florence founded the environmental literacy program at the Kennett Library seven years ago. Thanks to her sustained leadership, the library implemented environmental education programming accessible to the whole community.
The artist also founded the library’s Seed Library, a vintage library catalog filled with free seed packets available to the public. Library volunteers plan to continue this free resource with Florence’s vision in mind.
Florence’s impact continued into direct environmental stewardship with her “Meadowitos” project, a series of native pollinator garden demonstrations. After initially receiving a $500 grant, the project has since grown into three demonstration gardens located at the library, the Kennett Area YMCA, and The Gathering Place at Kennett.
Her departure comes amid uncertain times for Kennett Square, as the borough sees a rise in population, new housing, and resident concern over the former National Vulcanized Fiber site. While Florence herself might be moving, her powerful legacy will live on with those who have learned from her years of leadership.
Read more about Lou Florence and the educator’s long career in Kennett Square in The Daily Local News.
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