Green space isn't decoration—it's medicine. In this solo episode of Reimagining Community, Garland Fuller explores how outdoor and nature-rich "third spaces" restore wellbeing, invite belonging, and spark creativity. From morning walks to community gardens, we unpack why designing with nature is not a nice-to-have—it's a leadership mandate for healthier teams and communities. Research on social connection, mental health, and wellbeing backs it up , , .

Key Conversation Highlights

• Why Nature Matters for Belonging How outdoor third spaces (parks, trails, gardens) counter isolation and strengthen social connection , .

• Wellbeing > Just Productivity Nature time supports mental health and life satisfaction, a cornerstone of any credible wellbeing strategy , .

• Place as a Silent Communicator Lighting, shade, sound, seating, wayfinding, and views of nature shape stress and nervous-system regulation long before anyone speaks.

• Community Gardens = Community Glue Food growing spaces build pride, intergenerational connection, and access to healthful routines—especially meaningful in underserved neighborhoods (aligned with social connection priorities ).

• Program Outdoors, On Purpose Walking meetings, "curiosity walks," and outdoor offsites reduce digital fatigue, deepen trust, and turn nature into a built-in facilitator.

• People–Place–Program (PPP) Outdoors

  • People: Design for access (mobility, shade, restrooms, transit, cultural cues).

  • Place: Use sensory design intentionally (views, plants, water, materials).

  • Program: Plan rituals and flows (arrival, movement, reflection, food) that make connection inevitable.

Resources & Mentions

• Loneliness & Social Connection

  • U.S. Surgeon General Advisory: Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation — policy and design levers for connection. Read → HHS (2023)

• Mental Health Context

  • The Big Question: What is driving the global mental health crisis? Read → Financial Times (2024)

• Wellbeing & Work

  • Global Indicator: Employee Wellbeing Read → Gallup

  • Despite Employer Prioritization, Employee Wellbeing Falters Read → Gallup

• Wellness Macro Trends

  • 2024 Global Wellness Economy Monitor — framing nature, recreation, and mental wellness within the broader wellness economy. Read → Global Wellness Institute

Connect & Keep the Conversation Going

What's your favorite outdoor third space—and why does it matter to you? Share in the comments or tag Garland on LinkedIn. Want a deeper dive into People–Place–Program for outdoor activations? Join the Community Impact Collective and subscribe at garlandfuller.com.

Stay Inspired

"Outdoors isn't a backdrop—it's a living facilitator of belonging, wellbeing, and creativity." — Garland Fuller

Building legacies, together.