Thank You, Volunteers!

Posted in People on November 25 2008, by Plant Talk

Jackie Martinez is Director of Volunteer Services.

When thoughts are on the Thanksgiving and holiday seasons, we often reflect on those who have made an impact on us through their charitable and selfless actions. For me, this is most evident through my position here at the Garden. Every day I encounter a multitude of people from a wide range of cultures, religions, and ages who are here for one reason—because they love The New York Botanical Garden.

Perhaps on a lively Friday morning Marilyn gave you directions to the Garden Cafe for a cup of coffee. You may have seen Madeline, Peter, or Pat helping to beautify the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden; Frank tending to the Korean Garden in the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden; or Keefah and Rebecca assisting children with a variety of activities in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.

Maybe you have enjoyed an informative docent tour by Melisande in the Edith A. Haupt Conservatory or Bob in the Rock Garden or Sister Marjorie in the Forest or another docent on one of the stunning exhibitions the Garden offers.

These people are all volunteers at the Botanical Garden. They are among the more than 1,000 in the Volunteer Program who help to enhance the visitor experience, maintain the Garden’s 250 acres, teach plant science to visiting school groups and families, assist with clerical work, and collect data for climate change, among many other duties. Last year they clocked more than 80,000 hours of service. There is not one exhibition, program, or event that could be as successful without the dedication of the volunteers who respond to our numerous calls for help with a sense of responsibility to the Garden and with abundant fervor.

The entire staff at the Botanical Garden joins me in thanking each and every volunteer, not just during this very giving season, but every day. Your support is priceless and we are all extremely grateful.

To learn more about the volunteer program, click here.