Wilmington, DE – May 1, 2025 – The Delaware Center for Horticulture (DCH), a local non-profit organization dedicated to improving the community through the power of plants, celebrated the graduation of seven Branches to Chances®(BtC) participants on Thursday, May 1, 2025. The ceremony began with opening remarks from DCH Executive Director, Joanne McGeoch and keynote speaker, Eric Robinson, CEO of J2M Consulting, LLC., addressed the graduates. The ceremony continued with a presentation of certificates and concluded with reflections from each
Branches to Chances® participant.
“We are proud of each graduate and the work they’ve put into making it to this point. said Bonnie Swan, BtC Coordinator. “To witness their progress throughout the program and see the moment when everything clicks is incredible.”
“This program is vital for individuals who are looking to reenter the workforce. We provide the structure many are looking for to take that next step,” said Robert Harris, BtC Coordinator.
Branches to Chances® (BtC) is Delaware Center for Horticulture’s innovative return-to-work program with over 100 successful graduates to date. Participants come from many backgrounds seeking a supportive approach to gaining employment and exploring the opportunities available in the green industry. Through the 9-week program, participants are equipped with hands-on training in horticulture, landscaping, and urban forestry.
For some participants, BTC can also help address economic and racial disparities through hands on coaching, counseling, and guidance to gain employment. Completing the program fosters a sense of purpose and belonging for those facing systemic barriers to success and the program
creates pathways to rewarding employment while improving the environment and strengthening communities. BtC has been successful in connecting participants with entry-level positions in the horticultural industry upon graduation.
The Branches to Chances® program is supported by a variety of partners including:
Acme Store #808, Bancroft Construction Co., Bank of America, Capital One, ChristianaCare, The Corps Network/The William Penn Foundation, Corteva Agriscience, Discover, Gordon, Fournaris & Mammarella, PA, Harry’s Hospitality Group/Kid Sheleen’s, Jewish Family Services, Kentmere Rehabilitation and Healthcare, The Laffey-McHugh Foundation, The Middle Run Foundation, M&T Charitable Foundation, NAI Emory Hill, Nyssa Foundation, New Castle County – Public Works, The State of Delaware, The WSFS CARES Foundation, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Williams Houck & Co., LLC, and individual donors.
###
About Delaware Center for Horticulture
Since 1977, the Delaware Center for Horticulture has inspired individuals and communities through the power of plants. Its work includes creating and maintaining the first Urban Farm in the city of Wilmington, establishing the Branches to Chances® Return to Work Program, beautifying public landscapes, planting and advising on the urban placement of trees, and hosting educational programs and community events. For more information, visit www.thedch.org.
