Celebrating the People Who Make the Garden Grow
Volunteer Appreciation Month is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the people who quietly help the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden thrive: its volunteers.
Every year, these dedicated individuals directly impact nearly 140,000 visitors by supporting educational programs, assisting with events, caring for garden spaces, and strengthening daily operations. The Volunteer Program is essential to fulfilling the Garden’s mission and deepening community connection across Des Moines and beyond.
By celebrating volunteers this month, we honor the hundreds of people whose generosity helps this 12-acre urban oasis flourish—and affirm that the Garden’s future continues to be shaped by those who give their time, talents, and passion.
Volunteers at the Heart of the Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden engages more than 650 volunteers who contribute to nearly every part of the organization—from horticulture and tours to admissions, special events, and the Garden Shop. Together, they donate over 19,000 hours of service each year, helping maintain one of Iowa’s most beloved attractions.
Volunteers bring more than time. They bring expertise, creativity, and enthusiasm. Many serve on planning committees, guide visitors through exhibits, and share stories that deepen each guest’s connection to plants and nature.
A Commitment to Meaningful Volunteer Experiences
The Botanical Garden has been nationally recognized as a Service Enterprise, a designation awarded to organizations that strategically and effectively engage volunteers. This accreditation reflects a deep commitment to ensuring volunteer roles are meaningful, supported, and aligned with both organizational goals and individual strengths.
Staff continuously evaluate and improve volunteer programs so that each role remains impactful and fulfilling. Volunteers here are not simply extra help—they are essential partners in delivering programs, maintaining spaces, and welcoming guests.
Why Volunteer Appreciation Month Matters
Volunteer Appreciation Month is more than a celebration—it’s an intentional pause to say: You belong here. You matter.
At the Botanical Garden, appreciation reinforces the connection between volunteers and the larger mission of connecting people, plants, and the natural world. When volunteers understand the impact of their contributions, they continue to grow alongside the Garden itself.
The Power of Recognition
Acknowledging volunteers—both publicly and personally—reinforces that their time has real value. Simple gestures like heartfelt thanks, sharing stories of service, or highlighting volunteers in communications help demonstrate how their efforts translate into thriving gardens, memorable visitor experiences, and stronger community bonds.
Consistent appreciation also builds a culture of belonging. Volunteers become partners in the Garden’s success, not just helpers. In a community-focused nonprofit, this shared ownership extends beyond the grounds, helping the Garden remain a welcoming, vibrant destination for all.
A Call to Celebrate—and Join
Volunteer Appreciation Month is an invitation for the Greater Des Moines community to say thank you. You can show your support by attending events, offering words of gratitude, or simply recognizing the friendly faces in colorful shirts and name tags who make each visit special.
It’s also a wonderful time to consider becoming a volunteer yourself. Whether you love gardening, education, events, or connecting with people, there’s a role that can match your interests and schedule—and a chance to add your own story to the Garden’s legacy of service. Find out more about volunteering here.
If you visit this month, please stop by the main lobby and sign our giant THANKFUL FOR EVERY VOLUNTEER card. It will mean more than you know to them and to us.
