The Young Friends Council decided that all proceeds raised through Young Friends events in 2014 through 2018 would be directed to support the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden. The Council raised more than $50,000 through 5 events in 2014, an additional $42,000 in 2015, and more than $45,000 in 2016.
These funds are used by the Children’s Garden for physical improvements, including new nature instruments and a weaving loom, as well as nature-inspired books in storybook houses throughout the Children's Garden. Funds also support education staff, program enhancements, and seasonal closing weekend activities.
The Young Friends Council also personally contributed more than $46,000 to the Garden for the World campaign to support the expansion of the Brookings Exploration Center and new PlantLab, furthering their commitment to children's education at the Garden. The Board of Trustees was so impressed with this success, they matched the total and doubled the impact!
The Young Friends Council is excited to continue this success in 2017 and 2018.