Transformation

Eden Village is really all about Transformation, the thorough and dramatic change in form or appearance. As I was looking through old pictures this week of our land, I found this one, where an old homeless camp was about three years ago. This 17 acres of land in NW Tulsa had not been much since Tulsa was a city. An old farm stood here many years ago but had since been invaded by 6’ tall Johnsongrass, trash, overgrown weeds, and overgrown shrubs. On one side is the Arkansas River, the east side Terrwillrger Park, some old abandoned houses to the north, and Sandy Park Section 9 housing to the west. 17 acres, just 4 miles from downtown Tulsa, in an area of town that has seen it’s share of struggles.

However, I saw the potential in this land, to be used for something so great. We’ve had our share of challenges, it’s been very hard, but the land has been transformed into a community that will then be used to transform what really matters…..the lives of people.

Transformation has not just happened to the land, which is becoming so beautiful now with tiny-homes, a community center, storm shelters, gardens, chicken coups, lots of green space, and now a working farm for our new neighbors. Lives are being transformed daily, and we are seeing it every day.

Our new neighbors, 25 and growing to 63 by Thanksgiving, have potential also, and we’re so thrilled to see that come out as they recover within the safety and dignity of a nice home and community. As with the development of our physical project, there are and will always be challenges and obstacles to overcome. It’s not easy, it’s not perfect, and it will take time. We trust that this little 17 acres will lead to transformation and dramatic changes in the lives of hundreds of folks over the next many years and affect them and our community in so many positive ways.