Our Story
At Growth Gardens, we believe every young person — including youth with special needs — deserves the opportunity to build confidence, independence and meaningful life skills. Founded to create inclusive, empowering programs, we support children and adolescents as they learn, grow and thrive in an environment tailored to their unique abilities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower youth with special needs to discover their strengths, develop independence, and prepare for meaningful futures. We strive to create inclusive pathways and experiences where young people can learn, engage and succeed — on their terms.
Our Values
•Inclusion – Every youth is valued, welcomed and supported, regardless of ability or background.
•Empowerment – We focus on building agency: helping youth identify strengths and make choices.
•Growth – We believe in progress, not perfection; every step forward matters.
•Connection – We nurture relationships: with peers, mentors, families and community.
•Preparation – We equip young people with the tools and confidence needed for real-world engagement and success.
Why It Matters
For youth with special needs, having access to tailored programs means more than support — it means opportunity. At Growth Gardens, we help young people gain skills that support independence, workplace readiness, social integration and self-confidence. When youth feel prepared and connected, they’re better positioned to navigate their futures with purpose.
Our Team
Raised in Troutman, NC, Danielle Fleming is the visionary behind Growth Gardens, an inclusive program under The Love Project NC. A graduate of Livingstone College with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Danielle discovered her passion while working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. With over 15 years of experience serving this community, she founded Growth Gardens to create opportunities for learning, inclusion, and empowerment through hands-on mentorship and support. A devoted mother and woman of faith, Danielle believes in planting seeds of love and purpose so every individual — regardless of ability — can grow and thrive.
Born and raised in Charlotte, NC, Carisse Turner is a passionate educator, mentor, and dance instructor dedicated to inspiring youth of all abilities. A graduate of Fayetteville State University with a bachelor’s degree in Communication, she has spent the past six years teaching special education and creating inclusive learning environments that nurture growth and confidence. Now a proud member of Growth Gardens, Carisse brings her creativity and compassion to the program — empowering participants through the values of Dedication, Determination, and Discipline, and reminding each individual that they are capable, valued, and deeply loved.