Teen Transforms Shabby Garden Into Sanctuary In San Mateo County

REDWOOD CITY, CA — A Redwood City teen with a passion for gardening is leading the transformation of a dilapidated garden into a symbol for growth, healing and belonging this Summer in the heart of the city.

“Most stories begin with a problem,” said Ian Hsiao, a Redwood City teen who founded Roots of Change. “Our story started with a question: what does it mean to grow — emotionally, mentally, spiritually — when everything around you feels uncertain? That question became the seed for Roots of Change.”

Roots of Change is a project led by Bay Area students looking to beautify once forgotten, rundown spaces.

The project is focussing on turning the garden at the Saint Francis Center into a restorative space designed for reflection and joy.

“In a time when mental health and emotional wellbeing are top-of-mind, Roots of Change offers a fresh perspective, using nature, design, and community to foster healing. The garden isn’t just a physical space, but a metaphor: for transformation, connection, and building something beautiful together,” a press release stated.

These students are digging into the soil in hopes to show how empathy and imagination can have a lasting impact.

The garden is expected to be completed this summer.