About The Project
The Earth Helpers
AKI WIIDOOKAAGEWIN (Earth Helpers) are trades people, artists, and Elders who collaborate to provide Aboriginal employment and training opportunities. Our 'Learn to Garden' program teaches about food security and the care of our Mother Earth.
AKI WIIDOOKAAGEWIN (Earth Helpers) began the restoration of Paul Martel ‘Ecology’ Park in July 2020. The first step was clearing out invasive species and replanting species native to the Four Habitats: the Prairie Grasses, the Meadow Flowers, the Wetland, and the Shady Woodland Plants.
AKI WIIDOOKAAGEWIN (Earth Helpers) are funded through Aboriginal Employment and Training programs. Our Learn to Garden program is now in its third year. In 2021 award-winning artist, Joseph Sagaj painted a mural in tribute to the Indigenous spirit underlying the restoration.
History of the Park
Architect Paul Martel and community volunteers created and nurtured Ecology Park out of concern for conservation of Toronto’s Natural Habitat. Ecology Park was renamed to Paul Martel Park in 2014 to honour Martel’s contribution. After Martel’s passing in 2020, AKI WIIDOOKAAGEWIN (Earth Helpers) took up the cause of restoring and caring for the Native Plant Garden.
