Since early 2024, Bloedel Reserve has teamed up with the Bainbridge Island School District (BISD) Adult Living Program to provide work experience for the program’s students. The students spend an hour and a half, one day a week, at Bloedel Reserve assisting the gardening crew with tasks, usually in the moss garden, but often in other areas as well. 
Bloedel Horticulturists Ann Mackey and Darren Strenge work with groups of 2-5 students plus accompanying BISD educators. They help with weeding, leaf clean up, trail raking, planting, and many other important tasks. In the process the students gain experience taking directions, focusing on tasks, attention to detail, and completing work to help prepare them for life as young adults.
The arrangement is a win-win for the students, Bloedel Reserve staff, and visitors to the gardens. Students gain valuable work experience and Bloedel staff receive much needed help in the garden. Visitors to Bloedel Reserve get to enjoy the fruits of the students’ and staff’s labor. As an additional thank-you to the students, Bloedel records their hours as volunteer time. After working a cumulative 24 hours, the students receive a free, one year’s membership of the Bloedel Reserve.
This partnership between the BISD Adult Living Program and Bloedel Reserve is a very fulfilling experience for Bloedel staff. Among the staff you will find a strong love of nature, gardening, and all-things-wild. By integrating community partnerships into staff and visitor experiences, the grounds can be “more than just a pretty garden” and become a place for community enrichment.
–Written by Darren Strenge, Gardens West Manager
