Who is the future of public gardens? Will you support their path?

APGA’s vision is “A World Where Public Gardens Are Indispensable,” and without the involvement of students and emerging professionals, how will we achieve this?

APGA’s 2011 Annual Appeal is about students and we’d like your support.

Do you remember the first time you realized that working in Public Horticulture was for you? I’ll bet you remember your first APGA Conference meeting. Remember the valuable contacts you made there and how much you learned? No doubt it helped you in your current career.

APGA supported twelve enthusiastic students from seven US states and one from Haiti to attend our 2011 Conference, at a value of over $10,000. They continue to pursue their public garden careers in Marketing, Education, Conservation, Leadership, and Horticulture – in part because of this experience.

"The Student Travel Award allowed me to sit in on lectures given by the top public garden professionals, network with names I had read in books and articles, and visit gardens that I had only seen in pictures. I met role models and made friendships that will last a lifetime, while cementing my desire to pursue a career in public horticulture." (Lauren Garcia, 2011 Student Travel Award winner)

The APGA 2011 Annual Appeal will assist students even more on their path to success. With your support, APGA can open up the world of Public Horticulture to the next generation of future garden leaders by providing memberships, professional support, or assisting their journey to the next APGA Conference – “Garden Paths 2012.” Isn’t it our obligation as established professionals in our field to invest in these individuals who will determine our future success?

It’s easier to give this year than ever before; just click here and you’ll help blaze a trail for others to follow. Or if you’d prefer, you can mail in your donation via the standard route.

APGA needs your help to establish these paths to fulfilling careers in Public Horticulture. We hope you’ll see the opportunity to support us in realizing this challenge with your generosity. If you do decide to give, please know you have all our heartfelt thanks and appreciation.