Bodhi is deeply invested in enriching communities and aiding the people they serve.

Bodhi Garden Initiative is a multifaceted non-profit based in Erie, Pennsylvania, promoting food sustainability, positive physical and mental well-being, and community engagement.

Our Story

The Bodhi Garden Initiative (Bodhi) sprouted in the fall of 2020, from the idea of planting a traditional garden in the Heritage District of Erie. PA. The aim of the garden was to increase awareness of the socio-economic issues prevalent in that part of our city, and provide quality produce, at a reasonable cost for those with limited access. The vision continues to be enhancing the holistic well-being for all residents of our city.​

Bodhi is closing on its 2nd year mark after debuting to the Mercyhurst Innovation Entente Lab (Beehive) in May 2021. From an Idea to a Pitch to a State non-profit in September 2021 to Federal non-profit. Bodhi has wasted no time to turn into multi-faceted initiative. Food sustainability, positive mental health education, sustainable energy, and community involvement are something things that Bodhi prioritizes

The use of indoor aeroponic gardening in a crisis level facility is something that is unique to Bodhi. Research indicates that, "Harnessing nature to promote mental health is increasingly seen as a sustainable solution to healthcare across the industrialized world" Harris, H. (2017).​

Indoor aeroponic gardening harnesses nature and in doing so will incorporate Horticultural Therapy (HT) into treatment facilities, nursing homes and Veteran care facilities.

Aeroponic tower garden growing leafy greens

OUR PEOPLE

  • Michael Shannon Founder and CEO of Bodhi Garden Initiative

    Michael Shannon

    FOUNDER & CEO

    Mercyhurst University Class of 2021, Catherine McAuley Award Winner

  • Amanda Buzzanco-Hines Owner and operator of No Dirt Farms

    Amanda Buzzanco-Hines

    CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

    Owner and operator of No Dirt Farms in Fairview, PA

  • Rich Ragen CFO of Bodhi Garden Initiative

    Rich Ragen

    CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

    Chief Financial Officer for Child Development Center​ and Crawford County Redevelopment

  • Shannon Myers Healthy School Coordinator

    Shannon Myers

    PITTSBURGH LIASON

    Healthy Schools Coordinator at Women for a Healthy Environment, B.A. in Public Health & Sustainability Studies

  • Ashley Lawson Governance Committee Chair for Bodhi Garden Initiative

    Ashley Lawson

    GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE CHAIR

    Erie Food Policy Advisory Council Policy Co-Chair, Founder of Lawson & Associates

OUR 5 YEAR PLAN

Bodhi 5 Year Timeline green background with white lettering outlining plans for the garden from 2023 to 2028

LIVING OUR MISSION

We said we’re multifaceted! Learn more about how we are focused on wellness, food sustainability, and community engagement.