Growing Together: Our Community Outreach Story
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Outreach is at the heart of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Horticultural Society’s mission to engage, inspire, and connect our community while promoting horticulture and environmental stewardship. As a volunteer-run, charitable organization, we’re passionate about fostering a love for gardening in people of all ages and abilities through a welcoming and inclusive outreach program.
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We keep our members and the broader community informed and motivated through regular e-blasts, our website, and active social media channels. This multi-platform approach ensures everyone stays updated on upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and the success stories that help our society flourish.
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Education is central to everything we do. Our monthly meetings and seminars cover a wide range of topics—from gardening techniques to sustainable practices and environmental care. A highlight of our programming is our Spring Saturday Morning Talks, led by local garden coach Joanne Young. These sessions are designed for gardeners of all skill levels and are open to the public.
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Our society-managed gardens also serve as vibrant outdoor classrooms, providing hands-on learning opportunities and fostering community engagement. Key locations include the William & Nassau Garden and the pollinator garden at the Community Garden, where visitors can explore pollinator-friendly practices and sustainable gardening in action. Our pollinator gardens and native planting projects play a vital role in supporting biodiversity and promoting the health of our local ecosystem, inviting the community to get involved.
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Collaboration is key to expanding our impact. We work with local schools, like Royal Oak, and other organizations to offer programs that benefit youth, families, and the broader community. These partnerships help us deliver meaningful initiatives and create lasting connections.
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Signature events such as our Annual Plant Sale and The Gardener’s Garden Tour are not only a chance to raise funds for community projects and scholarships but also a celebration of the creativity and dedication of our members. These events attract gardening enthusiasts from across the region, offering inspiration and practical gardening knowledge to all who attend.
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Our outreach also includes special initiatives for seniors. Our volunteers deliver beautiful flower arrangements to seniors in the area, bringing joy and connection to our community’s elders.
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Through these efforts, the NOTL Horticultural Society has built a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable outreach program that benefits both our members and the broader Niagara-on-the-Lake community. Whether you're a novice or an experienced gardener, we invite you to join us in growing a greener, more connected community.