It may take a while for a group of Kansas Gas Service volunteers to see the “fruits of their labor.” Still, the time and energy they invested in planting 15 apple, pear and cherry trees in a Wichita neighborhood are expected to yield benefits for generations to come.

In partnership with Community Operations Recovery Empowerment (CORE), 13 Kansas Gas Service employees and family members recently rolled up their sleeves to plant a mini orchard in a vacant lot in Northeast Wichita with trees donated by Kansas Gas Service.

CORE oversees several community gardens designed to help tackle food insecurity by providing free produce to area residents. Paul Abromeit, a CORE garden coordinator, said area residents will be welcome to pick what they need when the fruit trees mature.

Giving Back Close to Home

Pam Gunter, project manager for Kansas Gas Service and a frequent volunteer, enjoys giving back to the community. The site of the tree-planting was just one block from where she grew up – a pleasant surprise. 

"As an employee for more than 30 years, it’s always meant a lot to me to work for a company that believes in investing in the well-being of the communities it serves,” she said. “Planting trees that will help feed the community where I was raised is extra special.”

Service in Action

Lauren Clary, area manager of Community Relations for Kansas Gas Service, coordinated the event. “We value the opportunity to partner with organizations that are addressing the pressing needs of local communities,” she said. “It’s a demonstration of our commitment to service, which is one of our fundamental Core Values.”

We’re eager to follow the magic of seeing these trees grow and bear fruit for a healthier community and better tomorrow.

Learn how you can get involved in CORE community gardens at coreofwichita.org.