Community Roots, an all-volunteer non-profit organization in Mount Vernon, is inviting the community to turn the Halloween decorations, particularly pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns, into compost.
The 2nd Annual Pumpkin Smash, a free event dedicated to sustainable practices and seasonal celebration, is scheduled to take place this Saturday, Nov. 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. The event offers the public an opportunity to responsibly dispose of post-Halloween pumpkins by converting them into compost.
Participants may bring their pumpkins and jack-o'-lanterns to the Community Roots site at 1104 W. Gambier St, Mount Vernon, for a safe and supervised smashing. The resulting organic materials will be added to the organization's compost system, which supports local soil health and reduces landfill waste.
To make the event more memorable and enjoyable, there will be live music and refreshments.
Pumpkins that were dropped off in advance will be added to the "Smash Donation" pile for later processing.
"[S]omeone else can smash them for you or you can come back and smash them yourself!" the organizers said.
Community Roots is dedicated to cultivating community connection, education, and wellness through horticulture and land stewardship. Located on the historic six-acre site of the former Glass Gardens Greenhouse, it provides a vibrant green space for therapeutic gardening and sustainable agricultural programs.
According to its mission statement, the organization primarily focuses on "working together as a community to provide horticultural rehabilitation programs to provide knowledge, therapeutic outlets, inspiration, and wellness for all of our friends and neighbors in Knox County."
Community Roots partners with local schools, STEM programs, and community groups to promote hands-on learning and inclusivity, offering free garden beds, a seed library, and volunteer opportunities.
