Board of Directors

Palinda Carrington Gaines

Palinda is a gardener, advocate, and human services practitioner.  She is an experienced secondary public school teacher, community-based program developer, fundraiser, editor, and grant writer.  Her efforts benefit underserved populations, including children in foster care, those with special needs, and young mothers who are experiencing homelessness with their children.

Palinda holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Wake Forest University, as well as a Master of Education degree in Community Agency and Addictions Counseling from The College of William and Mary.  Currently, Palinda is pursuing certification in Horticultural Therapy through Rutgers University, and certification as a master gardener through her local extension agency and Virginia Tech.  Additionally, she is collaborating with faculty members of George Mason University to develop horticultural-based therapeutic interventions for children in foster care and their families. 

Palinda is passing knowledge of plants, nature, and self-sufficiency on to the next generation.