About the Oasis
The Purple Oasis is a non-profit, urban farm in Cleveland, Ohio. We grow a variety of fruits and vegetables for University Circle and Fairfax residents.
We're here to educate, empower, and inspire Cleveland residents to actively participate in a secure, local, sustainable food system.
Garden History
The Oasis was founded in April 2008 by Don and Vel Scott as a way to get members of the surrounding community involved with each other and promote a healthy lifestyle through growing and eating high-quality produce. Within three years, the Oasis developed partnerships with Oberlin College's Environmental Studies Department, Case Western Reserve University's many volunteer groups, the Green Triangle permaculture designers, John Hay High School Environmental Club, the Ronald McDonald House, the New Agrarian Center, the Prevention Research Center for Healthy Neighborhoods, the Lerner School of Medicine, and more.
Since 2008, the Oasis has grown in "leaps and bounds". Each year, a new component has evolved. With the gradual addition of a shed, a 70-foot high tunnel, an herb spiral garden, and a variety of fruit trees to the garden, this once vacant lot has become what its name intended: an oasis. But the work continues, and new additions are always on the horizon. We recently built a gathering platform to be the new focal point of our community events, and we're now working on creating paths throughout the garden to make the space more inviting and accessible to visitors.
It's unbelievable to see "something healthful - something beautiful" grow in the heart of the city as a result of so many people from so many places who gave up their weekends for the health and wealth of a community. As we all know, "Health is Wealth". We are a rich, happy, and healthier community because so many people care and continue to help make dreams a reality. Be a part of this journey with us and share in our meaningful endeavor.
About Vel Scott
Vel is an educator and a leader in the movement to bring nutrition and healthy living into people's lives. Through her workshops, lectures, and cooking demonstrations, she teaches that food can be the catalyst for better living. Vel helped reverse her husband's heart disease by exploring ways to prepare the soul food that he loved. She has traveled the globe and integrates the spices and flavors of global cuisine into her recipes. Her passion and purpose is educating people on how to live their best lives by powering their bodies with healthy foods.
