As I look back on the past three years since assuming the role of Grantham Garden Club president, it has truly been a time of unprecedented change and challenge for our 24-year-old organization. The pandemic unexpectedly forced us to find new ways to engage with our members and the Grantham community. Thanks to the tireless efforts and dedication of the club’s leadership and members, the GGC embraced emerging video technology (Zoom), that allowed us to continue to hold engaging, educational, and interesting online programs for both club members and our community.
While the pandemic regrettably forced the pause of our annual, community plant sale fundraiser, we were able to identify new and innovative approaches to achieve our fundraising objectives. These included offering plants and spring bulbs to the club membership, a mystery garden tour, sales of garden-related donations at a townwide yard sale, and a garden tea party, to name but a few. We are proud to say that these efforts successfully supported our annual college scholarship program.
Through the pandemic and beyond, the GGC remains committed to communicating with our members and the Grantham community. We accomplish this through our vastly improved website and through email communications that promote upcoming meetings and special events.
I am pleased to say that as an organization we successfully engaged our members, and together we fulfilled the purposes and objectives of our club's mission. In fact, since 2020 our membership has grown by 40%! The hard work of our Steering Committee members, combined with the efforts of all the members who have volunteered, greatly enhance both our organization and our entire community.
Looking ahead, I invite you to join us and become engaged, whether it be through volunteering or simply attending a meeting. Become a part of our growing and dynamic organization, one that truly brings value to our community and its members!
Finally, my special and heartfelt thank you to our club officers, steering committee members, and all who have generously volunteered their time and efforts in supporting the club and helping make our community the special and beautiful place it is.
