FAAIE Joins Community Gardening at Shadle Park Library on May 22, 2025

The Filipino American Association of the Inland Empire (FAAIE) recently took part in a community gardening and planting session hosted by the Shadle Park Library, through the coordination of community liaison Juan Juan Moses.

Planting beds were generously provided, allowing FAAIE board members and volunteers—led by President Joyce Cabildo and Vice President Nelly Christoffersen—to cultivate a variety of vegetables commonly used in Filipino cuisine. Among the crops planted were eggplant (talong), bitter gourd (ampalaya), string beans (sitaw), and lady’s fingers (okra).

The harvest, expected in September 13, will be featured in a cooking demonstration of Pinakbet, a traditional Filipino vegetable dish that showcases these homegrown ingredients. The initiative not only promotes sustainability and healthy living but also provides a meaningful way to connect the local community with Filipino culture.

Special thanks go to Nelly Christoffersen for facilitating coordination with Juan Juan Moses and the Shadle Park Library, as well as to all the dedicated volunteers: Joyce Cabildo, Jennifer Migala, Rida and Bob Pierce, and Melinda McArthur. #FAAIE Events

Photo credit: Nelly Christoffersen.