Milestones are meant to be celebrated, and the achievement of Monk Botanical Gardens’ 20th Anniversary in 2023 is no exception. Hundreds of community members of varying ages participated in diverse events and programs throughout the week of May 15th to commemorate this year’s special occasion. Notably, historical tours were offered by long time volunteers and board members on Wednesday evening, May 17th and a 20th Birthday Bash took place on Friday evening, May 19th. Despite the brisk weather, more than a hundred gathered to share food, refreshments and memories of the Gardens’ historic timeline of growth.

This year marks 20 years since Monk Botanical Gardens became incorporated as a non-profit, two decades since the concept of an educational botanical garden grew from an “accidental trespassing” and Robert W. Monk III donated 20 acres to this vision. Robert’s daughter Marcia (Monk) King attended the 20th Birthday Bash held earlier this month and shared, “My Dad would be thrilled if he could see how the Garden was growing in many ways to be a success! He would love seeing the kids running around enjoying the outdoors, playing in the dirt, and splashing in the water like we did.” 

Ruth Schuette was another special guest at the Birthday Bash. She and her late husband Marvin donated the Treehouse feature and an additional 8.5 acres to the Gardens property in recent years. Ruth added, “Walking frequently through the Gardens, I am so proud of what staff and especially volunteers have accomplished! My message is to encourage everyone to visit the Gardens, watch for additional plans as proposed, and invest as you are able!”

Among other momentous accomplishments demonstrating the Gardens’ continuous growth, Sprouts Garden Preschool recently wrapped up its second full school year of classes since inception in the fall of 2021. A private graduation ceremony for preschool students, parents, and sponsors will take place this Friday evening at the Gardens. The Sprouts Garden Preschool program will continue to grow in the 2023-2024 school year. New offerings will include a full-day class for 4-5-year olds, and before and after-school care options for students. With nature at the heart of the program, teaching is based on high-quality early childhood education and environmental education practices. Students spend over 80% of their time outdoors throughout the seasons with any indoor time taking place in a yurt classroom. Positive social interaction and respect for others are heightened and reinforced by outdoor exploration and play.

A full lineup of summer programs and activities for ages 1 to 100 are planned to begin this week at the Gardens. Read more about the Gardens’ historical timeline of events, future programming and membership benefits on our website at www.monkgardens.org. 

Contact Monk Botanical Gardens with any questions at info@monkgardens.org or 715-261-6309.