The year 2015 has been one of great significance for LOVEtheLOU. We are a small non-profit that is constantly changing and growing. We’ve experienced lots of growing pains and have taken many risks. We are constantly stepping out of our comfort zone and pushing forward where we feel God leading us. Here is a look at our 2015: MARCH First Official volunteer group of the season APRIL Official launch of the new database and website (lovethelou.com) Beekeeping began MAY Paper

An Interview with Matt Hecky Tell us a little bit about who you are. My name is Matt Hecky, I’m 20 years old, I’m from Lake St. Louis, and I currently attend Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, MO. I worked with LOVEtheLOU for 4 weekends in St. Louis as an independent volunteer. By that I mean I went on my own and worked with a different group each time. What kind of work did you do while volunteering with LOVEtheLOU? The work I did ranged from gardening/l

This is my neighborhood. These are my children: all of them. This is not one of those canned, politically correct images that attempts to showcase diversity by throwing strangers together in a photograph. This is Enright and Sarah: this is North City. My wife and I didn’t officially adopt all these kids, however we have adopted this city, and the heart and soul of this city is the people. That is why we are raising our family in the city. We have fallen in love with the peopl

Our city is filled with potential. Where some outsiders may see a vacant lot we see a future garden. Where some people may see a dilapidated house we see the beautiful architecture waiting to be restored. Potential is also seen in the lives of individuals in our city. Where some individuals may see teenagers wandering aimlessly we see hundreds of students ready to blossom. During the 2014 year LOVEtheLOU will be continuing several projects that build up individual neighbo

LOVE is… …action. If you say you love the city but sit on your hands don’t expect any change. LOVE will push you outward and move you in the right direction. …work, but it’s always the right work. The paradox of LOVE is that as you are emptied you will also be filled. …patient. Change is coming, but it will take time. LOVE waits and hopes. LOVE never gives up. Our city is ready for transformation, but it’s a slow process. Don’t lose hope. …stronger than fear. No mat

Part I: Discretion vs. Valor In the southeastern corner of the State of Wyoming, there is a mountain range known as the Medicine Bow Mountain Range, in Medicine Bow National Forrest. Medicine Bow Peak is the pinnacle of this range, its body made up of massive granite cliffs that tower over the tree line below. At an altitude of over 12,000 feet, it is the tallest peak in Southern Wyoming. At its base are dozens of crystal clear glacier lakes, only adding to the serenity of th

On March 16th we will begin St. Louis’ first repurposed tire garden. This art garden will be located on the corner of 14th Street and Benton in Old North St. Louis. We will be transforming a vacant city lot into a walking path as a part of a series of projects in which we seek to connect neighborhoods in St. Louis. These pathways will serve as visual reminders that our city can be brought together with simple acts of love. We look forward to showcasing local artists as th

We love our city, but sometimes it’s hard to know how to show it. Here are some practical ways that each of us can make a difference in the STL. 1. Eat at local restaurants. Find that “hole in the wall” and explore their menu. It should go without saying, but when you buy local more of your money stays in your neighborhood. While you’re at it, why not start a community garden and share your vegetables? 2. Start a neighborhood blog. Share positive and encouraging stories onl

She waits to make her entrance. She’ll keep us on the edge of our seat and like a great performer she wants to time her act just right. The greens begin to fade and the rain quietly moves in. The leaves give up their grasp as they litter Forest Park’s floor. Coffee and cigarettes merge into a distinct flavor on Delmar and it’s at this time that you know she is close to coming onstage. You crane your neck to catch a glimpse of her, slowing your pace so as not to miss a

“You prolly had a government grant to do all this work, right?” We heard this question a few times as our artists took over the streets last weekend. It’s an honest assumption, but the answer always took the neighbors by surprise. “Nope. Everything you see here is donated by people who love our city.” Really? How is it possible to get over 50 gallons of paint donated? How is it possible to have 4 artists, over 40 volunteers, and an entire neighborhood join together in thi