Geenhouse Support
Locating Ongoing Funding
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To secure funds for
ongoing maintenance of the greenhouse, Julia Kirkwood,
an environmental science technician in Kalamazoo, MI,
recommends working greenhouse projects directly into the
curriculum. "If you show how benchmarks are being
met, the administration is more likely to support the
work and provide maintenance funding," she states.
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Once you have a greenhouse, you'll
have ongoing needs for replacing supplies such as containers,
potting mix, and seeds. Many schools have been challenged to
think creatively about ways to obtain these supplies without
making great demands on tight budgets. In some classes, students
write letters or make presentations to managers of garden centers
or other garden-related businesses. When you or your students
solicit donations, be sure to explain your project and its objectives
clearly. Describe how the donation will be recognized (for instance,
through a donor recognition sign at the greenhouse entrance).
As part of a presentation, remind companies that interested
students could grow up to be lifelong customers. Also consider
approaching the following groups for donations of new and used
gardening materials:
- botanical gardens
- local garden clubs
- university or city greenhouses
- local service clubs
- community garden groups
Be sure to follow up all donations with thank-you letters. If people
know their gift was appreciated and well used, they are more
likely to continue giving. Encourage your students to take
this on. Heartfelt thank-you letters, children's drawings,
and photos of abundant greenhouses with smiling faces are
among the most valued ways of saying "thanks" to supporters.
Maintain contact by sending donors any newspaper clippings
or photos that highlight the project, and be sure to mention
their contributions in any news stories or other publicity.
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