Center for Cancer Care Kindness Rock Garden
A story of kindness, connection and community at Goshen Center for Cancer Care
When a simple invitation turns into something meaningful, it often reveals the power of connection.
That is exactly what happened when Goshen Center for Cancer Care partnered with Bowen Health’s Transitional Living Harbours program to grow the Kindness Rock Garden. What began as an outreach effort quickly became a shared experience rooted in compassion, creativity and hope.
For Melanie Greer and the residents she supports, it became something more than a project. It became a way to give back.
A mission grounded in support
Melanie Greer serves as the interim supervisor for Transitional Living Harbours in Warsaw, part of Bowen Health. The program supports individuals living in a structured, staffed environment with the goal of helping them move toward greater independence.
Residents receive continuous care while building skills and confidence for life beyond the program.
“It’s about helping people take steps forward,” Melanie shared through her work and leadership. “Supporting them as they grow stronger and more independent.”
That same focus on people and progress aligned naturally with the mission at Goshen Center for Cancer Care.
An invitation to spread kindness
The collaboration began with a simple idea.
Alison Powell, Cancer Services Coordinator at Goshen Center for Cancer Care, reached out to Melanie with an invitation. Patients and staff at Transitional Living Harbours were invited to contribute painted rocks to the center’s Kindness Rock Garden.
The purpose was clear. Share messages of hope, love and encouragement with patients navigating cancer care.
Melanie brought the idea back to her residents and staff. The response was immediate.
“They jumped at the opportunity to give back,” she shared.
Creativity with purpose
What followed was more than an activity. It became a meaningful group experience.
Residents and staff gathered to paint rocks, searching for inspiration and sharing ideas. Designs ranged from colorful patterns to thoughtful messages. Each rock was created with care and intention.
The room was filled with energy and collaboration.
“It gave everyone something positive to focus on,” Melanie reflected. “A chance to do something kind for someone else.”
Through the process, participants found not only creativity but connection. They were able to extend compassion beyond their own environment and into the lives of others.
A deeper connection to the cause
For many involved, the project carried personal meaning.
Some residents and staff have experienced cancer themselves or have supported loved ones through treatment. One staff member is currently undergoing care. These experiences brought an added layer of empathy to the project.
For Melanie, the connection is especially personal. She lost her mother to cancer and remembers a time when resources and environments like the Goshen Center for Cancer Care were not accessible.
That perspective shaped how she viewed the opportunity.
“It means a lot to support others going through this,” she shared through her involvement. “To help bring even a small moment of comfort.”
Small acts, meaningful impact
The painted rocks now rest in the Kindness Rock Garden, offering encouragement to patients and families visiting Goshen Center for Cancer Care.
Each one represents a moment of intention. A message created by someone who cared enough to contribute.
For the residents at Transitional Living Harbours, the impact extends beyond a single project. Rock painting is something they already enjoy, often placing their creations throughout the community to spark joy.
This collaboration simply gave that practice new meaning and reach.
Building something together
The partnership between Bowen Health and Goshen Center for Cancer Care highlights what is possible when organizations come together with a shared purpose.
It strengthened community ties, created a therapeutic experience for participants and brought moments of encouragement to those facing cancer.
At its core, it is a reminder that healing and hope can be supported in many ways.
Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as a painted rock.
Start your care journey
If you or someone you love is navigating a cancer diagnosis, compassionate and comprehensive care is close to home.
Visit GoshenCancerCare.com to learn more about how Goshen Center for Cancer Care can support you every step of the way.
