By Anna Hughes

Not everyone has the gift of a green thumb, but Elmhurst Garden Club members ensure the whole community benefits from theirs. The 122 members work throughout the year to share their love for gardening and conservation, and are dedicated to keeping Elmhurst beautiful.

Founded in 1926, the club has a reputation for being an integral part of the Elmhurst community. Throughout its tenure, members have worked tirelessly to spread the group’s mission: to encourage the advancement, appreciation, and interest in horticulture through education. They also hope to aid in protecting the environment while encouraging civic beautification through this creative outlet.

One of the club’s most important undertakings is giving back to the community. The Garden Walk and Faire is the largest annual fundraiser; it features the viewing of several public and private gardens throughout historic Elmhurst. This event raises money for college scholarships, specifically for undergraduate students from Illinois who are studying biology related to plants, botany, environmental science, landscape design, and more. Since the walk’s genesis 25 years ago, they have given out $197,000 in scholarships.

They also provide two $500 scholarships to York High School students to partake in an experiential summer program. Furthermore, they donate to the York High School Garden Club and provide volunteers who assist the club members with various projects on campus. By fostering the interest of young minds in the community, they can help future horticulturists and environmental stewards blossom.

Beyond education, the group dedicates their time and talents to making Elmhurst a better place to live through both beautification and acts of kindness.

Recently, they donated $5,000 to the Elmhurst Park District for the Assistance Program, which helps disadvantaged families participate in recreational programs. Once a month, volunteers go to Epiphany Lutheran Church and have a garden therapy workshop with guests making flower arrangements. They also spread holiday cheer to the community by carrying out their 72-year tradition: decorating the Elmhurst Library Christmas tree.

The group meets at the Wilder mansion each month to discuss gardening, going green, and all things homegrown. All are welcome.

To learn how to better your home garden or to participate in maintaining one throughout the community, visit elmhurstgardenclub.org. ■

Members attend a pumpkin centerpieces workshop.

The group raises money every year for scholarships through their Garden Walk & Faire.

A field trip to Ball Seed in West Chicago Bottom: Elmhurst Garden Club annual plant sale