Volunteer Ambassadors Wanted for Stoneleigh: a natural garden
MEDIA, Pa., October 1, 2021 – Natural Lands is seeking guest-relations volunteers for Stoneleigh: a natural garden, its 42-acre public garden in Villanova. Volunteers, known as Ambassadors, inspire and encourage garden visitors to explore, learn, and appreciate the unique outdoor venue. Training for new volunteers begins on February 9, 2022.
“If you enjoy meeting new people; engaging with the public; speaking to small groups; and sharing information about plants, gardens, and history, we encourage you to apply to this program,” said Samantha Nestory, Stoneleigh horticulturist and volunteer coordinator.
After a series of five, half-day training sessions (in which Ambassadors learn everything from the history of Stoneleigh and parent organization Natural Lands, to native plants and ecological horticulture, to guest relations practices), Ambassadors volunteer their time welcoming guests to the garden, leading tours, and supporting special events.
Photo: Mae Axelrod
Current Ambassador Marlene Campbell knew about Stoneleigh and wanted to get involved, but she doesn’t think of herself as a gardener. “My idea of gardening is buying a hanging basket, hanging it on a hook, and trying to remember to water it.” But when she learned about the Stoneleigh Ambassador program, she thought, “I can do that!”
Since completing the training program in 2019, Marlene has been volunteering as a garden greeter. She likes to engage with people, saying hello to “the regulars” and sharing what she loves about Stoneleigh to first-time guests. She especially loves learning about and passing on the history of the property to visitors. “I’m learning all the time,” Marlene shares. “And I’ve made friends here.”
For more information, including training dates and a link to apply, visit natlands.org/ambassadors.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through November 19, 2021, or earlier if the class fills. The program is competitive, and spaces are limited. Selected candidates will be contacted on a rolling basis to schedule an interview.
Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone. As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 125,000 acres, including 42 nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,000 acres. Nearly five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all. natlands.org.