News release from the Foellinger Freimann Botanical Conservatory:
Botanical Conservatory Recognizes Volunteers & Community Partnerships
(March 31, 2011) – Botanical Conservatory volunteers celebrated over 11,000 service hours in 2010 at the Conservatory’s annual volunteer celebration dinner Monday evening. The 204 active volunteers averaged 55 hours per person. Based on Independent Sector’s $21.36/hr national average volunteer value, Conservatory volunteers saved the City over $239,000 in 2010.
The following volunteers were recognized:
Tim Drew (202 hours)–Acorn Award for being a rookie volunteer who helped at the front desk, in the gift shop, and with special events.
Pat Grice (205 hours)–Sunflower Award for keeping customers’ interests as well as the Conservatory’s goals in mind. Grice purchases and displays the gift line for the gift shop.
Kathy Lee (198 hours)–Monarch Award for demonstrating stamina and leadership in her roles with the Education Committee, Plant Sale, butterfly exhibit, Lawton Park Greenhouse, and special events.
Darlene Stucky (2,765 cumulative hours over 17 years)–Bonsai Award for making a significant contribution to a particular program or area, encouraging paid and volunteer staff. Stucky is a gift shop groomer, card buyer, and special events helper.
Special Friendship Awards were distributed to several community partners for their dedication and continuous support:
Doug Guerin—Sharing Heart Award for his enthusiasm in introducing others to the Conservatory, especially in encouraging new volunteers from among his co-workers and associates.
Penny Krebs—Helping Hand Award for her extraordinary willingness to assist in times of need, to learn new skills, and to share enthusiasm for new projects.
WAJI, Majic 95.1—Bridge Builder Award for working diligently to promote the Conservatory’s message of garden stewardship, horticultural science, and outrageous family fun with the Fort Wayne community.
Design Collaborative—Key to Success Award for being the creative genius behind the new café and the lighted sign, and for helping plan the future redevelopment of the terrace garden complete with a grand formal entrance plaza and self-contained entertainment facilities.