For the third year in a row, the Spring Fling was held Friday at “The Bird House” from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Once again food, fun and plants were for sale to the public with lots of smiles along the way.

Throughout the day, several people came to view the beautiful plant-life and many did not leave empty handed.

Viola Abraham, who has been with West Alabama Mental Health since 1972, said the greenhouse is a great chance for the community to come see all the great things they accomplished.

“Basically, this is a trading opportunity for the consumers,” Abraham said. “It is also an opportunity to see things grow.”

Growing the plants, Abraham said, was also a positive experience for the workers.

“Some of our people have this as one of their training agendas and would like to work in a greenhouse some time,” Abraham said.

“The Bird House” is a greenhouse operated by West Alabama Mental Health Center consumers, staff and volunteers. It is located at 1300 Old Springhill Rd. in Demopolis.

Plants of all types are up for sale at a reasonable price.

The Bird House was donated by WAMHC by Mr. Jim Bird and named in honor of both Jim and the late Eleanor “Sister” Bird.

It provides opportunities for individuals with mental illness and mental retardation to develop employment and independent living skills.

When the house was designed, Abraham said, it was constructed as an opportunity to give people a chance to prove themselves.

“Mr. Bird built this place to celebrate people with abilities,” Abraham said. “We are people with abilities that don’t always get a chance.”

WAMHC is a 501-3c non-profit organization, which also makes all purchases tax deductible.

The Bird House is open to the public from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. During that time items or sold to the public.