New Volunteer Tribute Garden
The new boardwalk classroom provides an educational platform to learn about wetland habitat areas.
Essay by Steve LaWarre, Vice President of Horticulture Photography by Erin Zacek
Volunteers are an exceptionally important part of the successful formula at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Every moment these beautiful spaces are open to guests, it is estimated two dozen volunteers are here supporting Meijer Gardens’ operations. Volunteers can be found serving in every area, and in every department. Whether for guest services, concerts, special events, or daily care of the conservatories and grounds, volunteers
An expanded BISSELL Corridor will allow greater accessibility for guests.
are a crucial part of the Meijer Gardens mission. It is fitting, then, that these special people would have a special garden—one honoring the work and dedication of these enthusiastic individuals. The Volunteer Tribute Garden was dedicated in October 2006 as a space to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that has been the foundation of stability, viability and community connection at Meijer Gardens. It serves as a consistent reminder of the importance of volunteers and our volunteer program. Returning to its home in this garden—where it honors our volunteers—is The Tribute, by Oliviero Rainaldi. Our expansion project, Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love, provided an opportunity to grow and reimagine several existing garden spaces; the Volunteer Tribute Garden is an area that will see some dramatic change. Because of its central location, this garden is a gateway to many of the outdoor gardens and grounds. The expansion of the building and outdoor access presented an opportunity to design this space in a new way. Guests have been able to watch the garden expansion firsthand, and the new Volunteer Tribute Garden will open with a rededication in late fall 2021. Wildlife-friendly plant material will be incorporated into the landscape. 8 | HORTICULTURE ESSAY
