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THE GARDEN IS A SECOND HOME FOR SARA FARKELL

By Aleeshia Carman Grant Writer & Development Coordinator

In the centre of the busy city lies the Toronto Botanical Garden, a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. For Sara Farkell, a long-time volunteer and member, our Garden is a second home, a place where she can reconnect with nature and nurture her love for gardening.

Growing up in a family of gardeners, Sara was naturally drawn to the world of plants and flowers. When she moved to Toronto a decade ago, she was delighted to discover the TBG, a space which fosters her passion for gardening and connection to nature. “Being able to find a space like this in a city that I am not from was very important to me,” Sara says.

Over the years, Sara has become a regular visitor to the TBG, enjoying its beauty and events like the summer concerts and birdwatching. “I love walking around and taking things in through the different seasons,” she says. “It’s peaceful and it’s quiet. There’s so much benefit to being in a space dedicated to nature. You forget that you are in a big city. The TBG is a reminder that we’re a part of something bigger.”

Not only does Sara believe in our beautiful space, but she’s thankful for the community she’s built among the Weston Family Library volunteers. “It’s nice being part of a team that loves both plants and books,” she says.

Like others involved with the Garden, Sara’s contribution as a member and volunteer is invaluable. As the city continues to grow and change, places like the TBG serve as a reminder of the importance of nature and the need for spaces that allow us to connect with it. “It’s important to contribute to spaces where people want to visit,” she says. “To spaces that make life more meaningful.”

ROBIN RAKOWSKY