VOLUNTEER
Come be a part of the beauty of the Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs
Volunteer with the Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs
The gardens are entirely run by volunteers. Over 9000 volunteer hours/year are required to keep the gardens looking their best. The time and effort contributed by these dedicated individuals is appreciated by all who visit the gardens.
As a botanical garden, we take pride in showcasing plants that can be grown successfully in our challenging climate. We promote sustainable gardening practices and waterwise gardening. Those wishing to work in the gardens should have some basic knowledge of gardening and a keen interest in learning more from our lead gardeners. Gardening tasks include planting, weeding, watering and maintaining gardens.
Volunteer shifts are typically Monday - Saturday from 9:00am - 11:30am and we require a minimum 10 hour comittment during gardening season (April - October).
Volunteers are also needed for operating maintenance around the gardens, including composting, construction, landscaping and irrigation.
Benefits of Volunteering
Learning Opportunities
Put your gardening skills into practice and increase your knowledge by working with our lead gardeners and through various educational events hosted by the gardens. Interact with visitors to the gardens who always have lots of questions.
Community
Work with others who share a love of gardening and giving back to the community. The gardens host several social events, for volunteers, throughout the year in addition to weekly coffee gatherings during the gardening season.
Exercise
Gardening is great exercise in fresh air. Bend, lift, and stretch with a purpose!
Volunteer Awards
2012
Federation of Calgary Communities “Be a Part of it” to Tom Mayhew, Bob Caddell and Duncan Badger. For improving the neighborhood.
2013
Calgary Horticultural Society “Award of Merit” to Bev & Duncan Badger. This was for outstanding contribution to gardening in Calgary for building the Labyrinth
2022
Battle of the Burbs – Calgary. Top Community is Silver Springs 37000 votes. Our garden was a major factor in the win
2023
Faces of Community Award Federation of Calgary Communities – Laurel Caddell for her sustained support of the gardens over 20 years and for being a founding member.
2024
King Charles III Coronation Medal – Duncan Badger for work in creating and sustaining the Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs
2025
King Charles III Coronation Medal – June Bergman for work in sustaining and leading the Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs
2025
Winner of one of Canada’s Volunteer Awards in the Community Leader category for the Prairies region.