The Gardens' Gate - July 2023

The Welcome Desk

by GAIL L’ESPERANCE

When you first walk into The Port St Lucie Botanical Gardens Pavillion, you’ll be greeted by a friendly volunteer who will tell you about The Gardens and answer any questions you might have. If you come by on a Wednesday morning, you might meet Charles at the Welcome Desk.

I was curious about the Welcome Desk, so I sat down with Charles to ask him how he came to volunteer at the Port Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens and what his volunteering job entails. Charles explained that he was introduced to the Botanical Gardens in 2021, at a time when he was looking for a place to volunteer. The Gardens were perfect because he’s an avid gardener.

Charles at the Welcome Desk

Charles said he chose the Front Desk because first impressions matter. He feels that greeting people, answering their questions, and making them feel comfortable is a vital part of any service organization. When visitors first enter the Botanical Gardens Pavillion, Charles informs them about the facilities and gardens, then gives them a map and a brochure. He also answers the phone, restocks the desk supplies, and cleans up when needed.

I asked Charles what the hardest part of volunteering at the Front Desk was, and he said that he thoroughly enjoys The Gardens and there is no hardest part – except possibly getting up early enough to arrive before it opens in the morning. Charles loves greeting guests and making them feel welcome.

When you come to the Port Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens, please say hello to Charles or whoever is the Front Desk volunteer of the day. They are the heartbeat of The Gardens.