What’s Growing On?… The impact and response to Coronavirus ‘COVID-19’ at Wellfield Botanic Gardens
[4-7-2020]
Greetings to our Garden Friends and Family –
We hope you are safe and healthy, making the best of the situation we’re all in together and finding the ‘silver-linings’ during this unprecedented time in our history.
The health and safety of our community remains our priority as we monitor and adjust to evolving guidelines from our public health officials, ensuring that we take necessary steps to protect everyone’s well-being.
We’ve been asked, “When will you be open?”
The simple answer is: When we are able.
Our goal is to be open for modified visitation soon after ‘Stay at Home’ and/or ‘Travel Watch’ restrictions are lifted. We’re Adhering to Indiana’s current “Stay at Home” executive order that took effect March 25 (and extended on April 3) and Elkhart County’s Travel “Watch” (upgraded on March 27), Wellfield will remain closed to the public through April 20 (or until the orders are modified).
We’ve suspended onsite public programming, including volunteer workdays and scheduled volunteer training sessions, which will be rescheduled – – or offered in a virtual environment – – stay-tuned for details!
But a garden needs tending…Administrative staff are still working online from home or at the office maintaining minimum basic operations to ensure we’re still providing great customer service to our valued members, supporters, and responding to all inquiries. Out in the garden, our Horticultural staff are still working hard to nurture and encourage our most valuable resources so we’ll be in tip-top shape for our spring opening when we are able to do so, including completion of our NEW Japanese-inspired “Island Garden”, a gift from Don and Jurate Krabill.
Stay informed by following us on social media…
….We’re providing updated photos of the Garden in spring and offering frequent ‘virtual experiences’, news and notes of what’s growing on at Michiana’s most beautiful location!
Want to help? This situation is having an impact our ability to cover costs of essential garden maintenance and preparation. If you are able to help today, THANK YOU. If you have recently renewed your membership or made a donation, thank you. If you have ever considered becoming a member, THIS IS THE TIME when we need each other the most. We’ll be open soon and want to share our amazing garden – here’s how you can help:
- Buy, Renew, or Purchase a Gift Membership. A year-long Family Membership costs less than a Starbucks coffee once a month! The value is tremendous for you AND furthers our mission. And as we’re currently closed, memberships purchased or renewed in April receive a 13-month term.
- Make a tax-deductible donation. Every bit of generosity matters and is appreciated during this crucial time for our Garden and our community – keeping the garden gorgeous requires operating funds, plain and simple.
- Donate a Commemorative Paver for a loved one. You’ll be reminded of your gift with every visit – – and you’ll inspire others to leave a lasting impression! Next cutoff is May 1.
We greatly appreciate your support, understanding, and patience during this challenging time for all. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at info@wellfieldgardens.org or 574-266-2006, ext 105. And thank you for doing YOUR part in making our community a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
Eric Garton
Robert and Peggy Weed Executive Director
Wellfield Botanic Gardens
