Neighbor Steps Up to Fund Judah Landscaping

Paige Dunsmore, a 19-year resident of McKinley Park and children’s book author, frequently walks her dogs past Theodore Judah Elementary.

It was on one of these summer strolls that she realized she could have an impact on her neighborhood.

“The front of the school obviously needed help,” said Dunsmore. “Although I don’t have kids, I have a vested interest in Theodore Judah. This is my community. I wanted the children attending to feel proud of where they went to school.”

So Dunsmore got busy — really busy. With school starting in just a matter of days, Dunsmore reached out to Greco Landscaping, of Sacramento, to overhaul the school’s entrance. The team, including Dunsmore herself, quickly got their hands dirty planting low water, low maintenance perennials, shrubs and bushes, as well as overhauling the school’s sprinkler system.

“The project was contagious,” said Dunsmore. “When Greco found out that I was personally funding the job, they were so impressed that they discounted their services. Neighbors seeing the work that was done, picked up shovels eager to help, came by with cameras – all wanting to take part.”

The results are impressive.

“The front of the school has been cherished and worked on by the community for many years,” said Principal Corrie Celeste of Theodore Judah Elementary. “Approximately four years ago, the community worked together to design and enhance the landscaping of the front.

Volunteers subsequently contributed hours by pulling weeds and pruning. This summer we were due again for a spruce up. As we were assessing the need, a generous donor came forth. We are incredibly grateful to Paige for her contribution.”