What We Do
Civic Relations
Our most visible and enduring contributions are the many civic projects we have participated in for over a hundred years. From donations to major organizations and smaller community groups for their major garden projects to our own members “rolling up their sleeves” to help plant and maintain public gardens and gardens in public spaces, we help create a more beautiful world in the Greater Hartford area.
Community Outreach
Each December, we create fresh holiday themed table centerpieces for several local homeless shelters as well as holiday inserts for Healing Meals. Throughout the year, we will respond to opportunities to help in the Greater Hartford area not-profit organizations.
Conservation
The Conservation Committee is charged with stimulating the interest of the Club and its members in conservation and environmental issues. It strives to make conservation and the dangers of neglecting our environment tangible and relevant to members through education programs, field trips, hands-on projects, and naturalist fireside chats.
We support efforts to promote the use of ecologically appropriate native plants to increase biodiversity and preserve habitats for pollinators and wildlife, while helping to eradicate invasive species. We share information about gardens, books, films and events, and host guest speakers with a focus on maintaining healthy ecosystems in the face of climate change and reducing waste pollution. We also participate in initiatives developed by the Garden Clubs of America and the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut.
Floral Design
We hold several workshops a year in the art of floral arranging and are branching out to include the botanical arts. We have several past and present GCA judges in our membership and many members who share their wonderful talents. Some of our arrangements are for Community Service and we appreciate the opportunity to share our skills with our community.
Horticulture
CVGC’s own members and guest speakers regularly share their expertise in practical demonstrations, workshops, field trips, and presentations throughout the year. As gardeners, we are always interested in learning better techniques to care for our plants or about the importance indigenous plants that support biodiversity or eliminating invasive species.
Photography
Our members improve their photography skills through presentations, workshops, and sweepstakes. We use photography to document our activities and the evolution of civic projects. Photos enhance our presentations, club communications, and help us to communicate online.
Visiting Gardens
Ranging from grand formal gardens to open garden tours to hikes in public parks and arboretums to unique, boutique growers of specialty items, these field trips are a great way to view and learn about horticulture and conservation. Local on-site experts share their insights which makes these outings fun and informative, and they are always an opportunity to practice our photography skills.