The Garden Club Of America

For over a century, The Garden Club of America (GCA) has been dedicated to stimulating the knowledge and love of gardening, while promoting the restoration, improvement, and protection of the environment through educational programs and action in the fields of conservation and civic improvement. Founded in 1913, the GCA is a volunteer, non-profit 501(c)3 organization comprised of 199 member clubs and approximately 18,000 club members throughout the country.

Our Mission and Values

At the GCA, we believe that gardening and environmental stewardship are essential for creating a more sustainable and beautiful world. Our mission is to promote the cultivation of horticulture, conservation, and civic improvement, while fostering a sense of community and cooperation among our members. We strive to achieve this mission through various programs and initiatives that support education, conservation, and community engagement.

Our Services

The GCA offers a wide range of services that cater to the interests and needs of our members and the broader gardening community. Some of our key services include:

• Scholarships: The GCA offers 29 merit-based scholarships and fellowships in 12 areas related to conservation, ecology, horticulture, and pollinator research. Our scholarships have a total value of over $400,000 and have been awarded to over 300 students since 2023.
• Conservation and Civic Improvement: We work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups to restore, improve, and protect the quality of the environment through educational programs and action in the fields of conservation and civic improvement.
• Horticulture and Garden Design: Our members are passionate about horticulture and garden design, and we offer various resources and support to help enthusiasts develop their skills and knowledge in these areas.
• Community Engagement: We believe that community engagement is essential for creating positive change in our communities. We organize various events and activities that bring people together and foster a sense of community.
• Publications: We publish a variety of publications, including books, newsletters, and online content, to share knowledge, inspire, and educate our members and the broader public.

Our Commitment to Native Plants

At the GCA, we recognize the critical role that native plants play in supporting a healthy environment, and we are committed to promoting their use in gardens and landscapes. We have been instrumental in establishing Native Plant Month in all 50 states, and we continue to work towards this goal.

Our Grants and Awards

The GCA offers various grants and awards to support projects and initiatives that align with our mission and values. We believe that by providing resources and support to innovative projects and initiatives, we can make a positive impact on the environment and our communities.

Our Future Plans

As we look to the future, we are excited to expand our reach and impact. We plan to continue our work in conservation and civic improvement, while exploring new initiatives and partnerships that support our mission and values. We are committed to being a leading voice in the gardening community and to making a positive difference in the world.