At Veterans IN Farming, we love highlighting inspiring work from people in our community. This month, we are excited to feature Frontline Gardens, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting our nation’s heroes. Frontline Gardens offers a unique horticulture therapy program designed to help Veterans, First Responders, and Gold Star Families heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Their work focuses on providing participants with custom-built gardens right at their homes, creating a lasting space for personal growth and recovery.

A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience

The organization’s founder, Michael Trost, is a 32-year U.S. Army veteran with a deeply personal connection to this mission. In 2012, while serving in Afghanistan, Michael was seriously injured, resulting in the loss of his right leg and partial right hand. He endured 35 surgeries and spent over a year recovering at Walter Reed Military Hospital.

After five years of intense physical and emotional recovery, Michael and his wife, Stephanie, purchased a farm in Madisonville, Tennessee. The healing power of working with the land made a profound impact on their lives, helping them find emotional, physical, and spiritual renewal. This personal transformation inspired Michael to launch Frontline Gardens, creating an opportunity to give back to fellow Veterans, First Responders, and Gold Star Families.

Growing Support Across States

Since its founding, Frontline Gardens has expanded to serve participants in Tennessee, Colorado, North Carolina, and Georgia, with plans to grow further as new opportunities arise. The organization has completed over 70 custom garden projects, each designed to fit the specific needs of the individual veteran.

These projects go far beyond simply installing raised garden beds. Frontline Gardens provides ongoing support by connecting participants with master gardeners and offering monthly "Lunch and Learn" gardening classes through the University of Tennessee. This ensures that each participant not only starts with a garden but also has the knowledge and resources to succeed in cultivating it.

Collaboration for Long-Term Impact

Frontline Gardens emphasizes working within each veteran’s existing care plan. While the organization itself does not provide formal therapy, it collaborates with participants' therapists—whether through the VA or civilian providers—to incorporate horticulture therapy into their treatment process. This thoughtful integration ensures a smooth and supportive path to recovery.

Get Involved

Michael and his team are committed to expanding their reach and are always open to conversations with new partners, supporters, and volunteers. As their work continues to grow, so does their vision to support more individuals across the country. If you would like to learn more about Frontline Gardens, get involved, or explore how you can support their mission, visit www.frontlinegardens.org.