Garden Party guests gathered in the LEAF Learning Garden for a fun evening celebration
The garden was decked out in all its natural splendour, with Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), sweet ox-eye (Heliopsis helianthoides), and the nationally-threatened dense blazing star (Liatris spicata) present among the blooming flowers. We added some artistic touches, though, just to enhance what was already there!
The LEAF garden chalkboard was beautifully decorated by one of our summer interns.
A volunteer provided some lovely music during the event!
In addition to socializing, attendees got to participate in several mini tree tours and garden tours, led by our staff throughout the evening. This gave people the opportunity to learn more about specific vegetation in the urban forest that they help protect.
One of the mini garden tours.
The event was also a wonderful way to thank all of our supporting partners - Ontario Power Generation, York Region, The City of Markham, The City of Toronto, Live Green Toronto, Toronto Hydro, The City of Mississauga, Canadian Tree Fund, The Town of Ajax, Artscape, The Toronto Transit Commission. We also had a chance to thank our current volunteer board members and strategic advisors who help guide LEAF as an organization.
Deborah Martin-Downs, Janet McKay, Jode Roberts, Kathrin Majic
Food and drinks for the party were generously provided by several local businesses. Fiesta Farms provided a variety of snacks, and Starbucks donated their delicious Iced Passion herbal tea. Biscotti from Leah’s and chocolate from Chocosol were much appreciated by guests and staff alike! Special mention also goes out to Greenhouse Juice Co., who not only donated a variety of their juices to the party, but whose staff also volunteer regularly at the LEAF Learning Garden.
Some of the generously donated refreshments at the garden party.
The party was a great way for people involved with different LEAF projects to get to know one another!
It was a wonderful evening for all involved, and a great way for us to thank our volunteers for all their hard work and dedication. Like other 20-year-olds, LEAF’s driving force is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what we – with our amazing team of supporters – accomplish next.
Montanna Diakun is LEAF’s Education and Stewardship Assistant.
Photographs were taken by Torie Gervais and Tooba Shakeel.