The 2019 National Library of Medicine study revealed a troubling link: high-crime areas often see increased rates of depression and PTSD. This problem is especially acute in Cleveland, Ohio, which MoneyGeek ranks as one of the top 10 most dangerous cities in America. Amidst these challenges, Aharon Ben-Keymah’s initiative at the Prolific Achievers Academy in Cleveland stands as a beacon of hope.
His creation, the Prolific Oxygen Dome (P.O.D.) in Cleveland’s Central community, is more than just a gardening space. It’s a sanctuary designed for mental wellness and tranquility. Housed within a 33-foot Growing Dome from Growing Spaces on the Urban Agriculture Initiative’s farm, the P.O.D. provides a peaceful retreat, fostering serenity and mental rejuvenation.
The Driving Force: Aharon Ben-Keymah aka Farmer Ben
The seeds of the P.O.D. project were sown eight years ago when Aharon Ben-Keymah, affectionately known as Farmer Ben, began anew at the UAI farm, following a court-ordered community service. It was here that his passion for gardening blossomed, leading to explorations in geothermal energy and its application in the agriculture industry.
In 2016, a chance encounter to help repair a garden introduced him to the Growing Dome. This experience was a pivotal moment for Farmer Ben. The Growing Dome’s tranquil and serene atmosphere ignited in him a vision. He saw the potential of the Dome not just as a structure, but as a means to imbue his community with a sense of peace and tranquility that it sorely needed. His goal became clear: to make this feeling of serenity accessible to as many people as possible.
With the generous support of numerous donors, the UAI, and the community, Farmer Ben’s dream became a reality in October of 2023. Reflecting on his journey, Ben shares his excitement:
“I am stoked. This project is truly a dream come true. It has been really obvious the effects of the Growing Dome has had on the community especially this winter. It has become a warm inviting space. People love it.”
The POD Experience Membership and Community Engagement:
Entering the Dome is a step into a realm of tranquility, where the aroma of herbs and the sound of flowing water create a therapeutic ambiance. Access to the P.O.D. is through membership or volunteer work. Membership requires physical presence at the farm for registration. The cost of membership is set at $50 monthly. Alternatively, offering volunteer services in farm tasks is accepted as a form of payment for access to the P.O.D. In this arrangement, each hour of volunteer farm work is compensated with 10 minutes of access time in the Dome.
Guests have a selection of alternative therapy options to choose from. These include yoga, sound therapy, reflexology, reiki, art therapy, and acupuncture sessions.
The Future of The POD Project
As the Prolific Oxygen Dome stands today, it is not just a testament to Farmer Ben’s vision and the community’s support, but a living symbol of hope and positive change. Looking forward, the P.O.D. promises to continue its vital role in the community, offering a sanctuary of healing and growth. Farmer Ben’s dream, now a reality, is a beacon of inspiration, showing that with passion and support, we can create pockets of peace and healing in our communities, one Growing Dome at a time.
If you are interested in learning more about the Prolific Achievers Academy or booking time at the P.O.D. you can connected with them via email at growing@thepaacademy.net. Contact us to learn more about what a Growing Dome can do for your or your community.
All photo credits form this article go to Majestic Visions Productions, LLC.
