Green Oasis Community Garden was founded in 1981. With the neighborhood experiencing crime and decay in the preceding decades, the garden opened, alongside Gilbert’s Sculpture Garden, aiming to provide a safe, green space for all people, especially children. In addition, the garden created space for the community, offering a space to perform theater, poetry, and enjoy nature. Green Oasis Community Garden, founded by Norman Valee and Reinaldo Aranas, was created from five abandoned lots located on East 8th St between Avenues C & D. With the help of the community, the lots were cleared of rubble, dumped cars, and garbage to prepare for the garden.
