Wallingford Destinations Delight "Goals in Gardens" Attendees

Chester Upland Youth Soccer’s latest “Goals in Gardens” outing brought families to Wallingford’s Community Arts Center for a nature walk and a craft, then four blocks up the street to the brand new Gouley Park for soccer and a picnic lunch.

The Arts Center home is one of Delaware County’s most historic and architecturally interesting properties, a 122-year-old estate on four landscaped acres adjacent to I-476. Families were impressed by the “castle” that they could explore, the surprise-filled garden and the vibrant surrounding woods that they briefly hiked through to collect natural items to use in their art projects.

After the hike, instructors Gail and Jeannie expertly and patiently instructed the children in the art of printing, encouraging them to be creative with the materials and paint colors on hand. Each child left with two colorful and unique pieces of artwork to hang up at home.

“I had no idea this place was just 15 minutes from home. We are definitely coming back!” exclaimed one parent whose family enjoyed the day and was delighted to know that the space is regularly open for visitors.

Next, the caravan of families and coaches drove to Gouley Park, where a buffet of cheesesteaks (in honor of the successful Philadelphia sports teams!), pizza, fruit, juice and water awaited them. Children quickly moved from the lunch table to the soccer field with Coach Chris and Coach Titus while parents and guardians finished eating and then helped themselves to the variety of groceries, athletic apparel and toiletries that were also made available.

This happy day was the sixth “Goals in Gardens” program. The schedule of upcoming CUYS events can be found here.