Post City Column: Sustaining our gem of a garden

By Jaye Robinson
Post City Magazine — Bayview Edition
August 2013

Summer is here and the Toronto Botanical Garden is in full bloom — what better time to come and visit the city’s only botanical garden.

The Toronto Botanical Garden (TBG) is truly a gem, and I am honoured to have it in my ward. I have been happy to work with the garden since I was first elected.

Over the years, the TBG has become much more than a garden. It’s a gathering place for the community and a living classroom and a place to learn. It offers so many great programs, from courses and camps for children to farmers’ markets and concerts.

The TBG’s budget has not kept pace with these changes, leading to increased financial pressures. The TBG needs more annual funding to maintain these excellent programs. That’s why I worked with TBG staff and the city’s budget committee to secure a one-time lump sum of new funding last year at city council.

On a longer term basis, the TBG is working with the City of Toronto: Parks, Forestry and Recreation Division on a plan to become more financially sustainable. We expect to see a report this fall.

The TBG has recently hired a new executive director, Harry Jongerden, a previous director at VanDusen Botanical Garden and Blodel Conservatory in Vancouver.

You can also help. The TBG depends on the support of individuals, corporations and foundations. The bulk of its revenues come from donations, membership fees, sponsorships and event rentals.

Consider making a donation and help the TBG maintain its programming.

You can make a donation at torontobotanicalgarden.ca.