Planting Seeds of Community: Torrance YMCA’s Garden Project Blooms in Memory of Jason
A Project Rooted in Youth Education and Community Spirit
At the Torrance-South Bay YMCA, a new project is taking root—one that blends youth education, community spirit, and a heartfelt tribute. This summer, three very special new garden beds were built to support the YMCA’s youth enrichment programs, providing fresh opportunities for gardening and cooking classes in memory of Jason, a beloved YMCA child who found joy in the garden and whose spirit continues to inspire those who knew him.
“Hands-on learning in the garden gives kids life skills they can’t get in a classroom,” says Cassie Buzze, Youth & Family Program Director. “Jason was such a bright light for our staff during Covid. He loved being outdoors—digging, collecting bugs, and even discovering wild strawberries no one knew were there. This project honors him with strawberries and flowers that will continue to grow, just as his memory does.”
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From Eagle Scout Plan to Community Legacy
What began as an Eagle Scout project for brothers Blake and Quincy Ishida, quickly evolved into something even more meaningful. When timing requirements meant the boys could no longer complete the project for their Eagle award, they chose to move forward anyway—driven by the belief that the community still needed it.
Partnering with YMCA Youth & Family Program DirectorCassie, the boys worked with two YMCA board members—one a local nursery owner, Russell Akiyama, Sunflower Farms Nursery, and the other an experienced garden builder, Dean Beresford—to design and construct the beds.
Honoring Jason’s Memory
As plans took shape, the project found a deeper purpose. While touring the garden, the team discovered a small toy buried in the soil. Cassie recognized it immediately—it had belonged to Jason, a child who attended YMCA childcare during the pandemic and had a special connection to the garden. Jason loved spending time among the plants, once even finding a strawberry and asking if he could eat it.
Tragically, Jason passed away 3 years ago in July from brain cancer, leaving a lasting impact on the YMCA community. Moved by his story, the team decided to dedicate the garden to Jason. His family, including his mother and sister, joined the project from the beginning, helping to clear the existing plants and prepare the site.
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What the Garden Will Grow
One bed will grow strawberries in Jason’s honor, another will feature herbs for cooking classes, and the third will be filled with seasonal vegetables. A future butterfly garden is also in the works.
The project is on track for completion by August 13, just in time for the YMCA’s fall youth programs starting September 1. The new garden beds will be central to a Gardening Club and expanded cooking classes, where kids will harvest fresh produce to use in recipes—learning valuable skills, gaining confidence, and maybe even discovering a new favorite food.
Building More Than Garden Beds
“This project is about more than building garden beds,” shared Blake and Quincy. “It’s about creating a space where kids can connect with nature, learn where their food comes from, and be part of something bigger than themselves. And for Jason’s family, it’s a way to honor his joyful spirit.”
Beyond the vegetables and herbs, this project is cultivating something even more powerful—community. Volunteers, YMCA staff, and local families are working side by side, showing young people that when a community comes together, beautiful things can grow.
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