Michael Jonathan McCrann Sensory Garden at MCACC

To our family and friends,

Shortly before he died, our dad made a phone call to Monarch. Dad was a committed, active, and passionate Monarch Board Member so placing a call to Monarch was something he did a lot – but this call was different. While we both overheard his direct questions and his specific instructions, we did not know about his ideas for the garden.

What he knew at the time – and we did not – was that this would be his last gift to an organization to which he had given his time and treasure for more than a decade.

He knew that this contribution could be a legacy. A way to support Monarch’s general operating fund and the new sensory garden project at the Monarch Creative Arts and Community Center program that our brother, Jonathan, attends.

We now know that his gift laid the foundation for a creative and unique outdoor space that is taking shape at MCACC. The Michael Jonathan McCrann Sensory Garden will be an inviting space for the people Monarch supports as well as the Southern Pines community. The garden features a winding path, fountains, a kinetic sculpture, artwork, and a variety of plants and trees. It will offer year-round engagement for the senses; a calm respite from what troubles the mind, or an inviting place to gather and enjoy one another’s company.

A space for learning, creative expression, and community: we can’t think of a more fitting way to honor our father’s legacy of support and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

By joining us in making a contribution in his memory, you will help ensure the completion of the sensory garden project and support its ongoing maintenance over time. Because of his own investment, we know Dad was committed to seeing this garden grow and we invite you to join him in making that possible.

Please also join us as we dedicate the garden at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, May 31 at 1 p.m. at MCACC, 1662 Richards St. in Southern Pines.

We miss him so very much. We are proud to know that this project and seeing the people Monarch supports enjoy this space, would have made him happy. To give, simply click the link below.

We join our father in gratitude to all of you who support this work and commitment to this community- we hope that we’ll see you in the MJM Sensory Garden soon!

Sincerely,
Josephine and K.C. McCrann