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Play, download and edit the free video Elise Deano.

While serving as a youth court judge in Hancock county, Elise Deano was awarded a grant to start a juvenile drug court. Wanting an innovative and effective way to help youth facing drug issues, she decided to transform the vacant property next to the courthouse into a community garden to be cared for by the kids in the program. Now home to Ruth’s Roots, the once-bare land has flourished in the care of the kids who plant, care for, and cook vegetables of their own choosing. Ruth’s Roots provides an invaluable outlet for youth to learn skills, stay engaged, connect with the community, and have fun.
Though Elise left the bench, she remains President of Ruth’s Roots today. The community treasures the garden. It started with 24 salad tables and four gardening beds. There are now two worm beds, a waterfall and fishpond, rabbits, hens, and honeybees. The honey and eggs are donated to the community, and a “blessings box” full of food and toiletries is available for anyone in need. A free Little Library holds books for all ages. In 2019 alone, over
600 monarch butterflies were raised and released from the butterfly house. The vibrancy of bright, colorful art welcomes schools, clubs, artists, and photographers who visit weekly. People take yoga and tai chi, celebrate their birthdays, and get married in the garden. It is always open and always free to the public. Denis Jacobs captures the essence of Ruth’s Roots in a Shoofly Magazine story - she writes, “Colorful butterflies, tasty herbs and serenity - all thrive at this city sanctuary, where volunteers raise vegetables and community spirit.”
In addition to Ruth’s Roots, Elise takes part in many other areas of service. She participates annually in the Hancock County Middle School Share Fair, speaking with middle school students about her career and how to achieve goals. She is president of Hancock County’s Drug Free Coalition; and volunteers regularly at King’s Kitchen providing free meals for residents of Hancock County.

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