Jardin Malinalli is a community garden spearheaded by the Yollocalli Arts Reach youth initiative located in the Little Village neighborhood. Since 2018, Yollocalli has led the transformation of the previously vacant lot into an inviting outdoor space that celebrates the Latin community through colorful murals, indigenous permaculture, native plantings, and cultural programs. Some of the current uses for the space are youth programs, dansa, and Villapalooza, a local music festival for the Little Village neighborhood. The organization was in need of a more formal outdoor gathering space for all of these programs.

• Create an accessible stage and deck that is geared towards musical events and community activities
• Repurpose existing materials and emphasize native plants
• Support existing workshops and programs by providing flexible elements such as tables, moveable seating, and art display areas

The garden derives its name from the Nahuatl word “malinalli” which translates to “tall grass” and is the day in the Aztec Calendar that relates to Patecatl, a god associated with medicine, healing, and fertility. Malinalli is a perfect name for the garden as the word symbolizes rejuvenation and perseverance.

Located in a dense, residential area, a block from an elementary school and across the street from a boys and girls club, Malinalli is the only green space within a 12-block radius. Through the development of this outdoor space, the neighborhood will gain access to a safe gathering area, increased bio diversity, and a thriving network of community organizations.