Our Story
In July 2006, Christy and John Walton generously donated their former home and garden in National City to the International Community Foundation. This act of philanthropy aimed to engage and promote healthy communities through civic engagement along the San Diego-Baja California border. By late 2007, the ICF Center for Cross-Border Philanthropy was established to maximize the potential of this gift. In October 2009, the Foundation gifted the 6.85-acre property to the Center, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.
Since March 2010, Olivewood has welcomed children from the National School District for field trips, introducing them to the joys of nutrition education in partnership with Chef Julie Darling. Hundreds of local chefs have contributed their time to the Olivewood kitchen, which was named “The Darling Kitchen” in honor of Chef Julie in 2011. The expansion of the educational garden to 7.85 acres in 2020 further enhances Olivewood's mission to connect youth and adults through sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
In September 2022, the organization rebranded as Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center, reaffirming its commitment to inspire healthy and active citizens through education and community engagement.