Wendy’s Wanderings

April Celebrates Gardens and the Generous Spirits Who Tend Them

April 8, 2025

April is a busy month for gardeners. There’s so much to do—planting, pruning, and coaxing new growth to life. It’s no surprise that April is recognized as National Gardening Month. But it’s also National Volunteer Month, which beautifully combines two of my favorite things: gardening and volunteers.

To everyone who has volunteered, is currently volunteering, or plans to volunteer in the future —thank you. Your time, energy, and heart make our communities blossom. In Florida alone, volunteers contribute an incredible amount of service each year. In 2024, Florida Master Gardener Volunteers donated over 340,000 hours, a contribution valued at $11 million. That’s a staggering impact, and a testament to their commitment.

As President George H.W. Bush once said, “Any definition of a successful life must include service to others.” Volunteers are the heart of what we do, and their dedication is felt across every garden gate and Extension office in the state.

Volunteering not only benefits the community — it uplifts the person giving their time as well. Studies have shown that people who volunteer feel they have more time, not less. According to a 2012 Harvard Business School study, when people give their time away, they feel more capable, useful, and efficient — which creates a sense of time affluence.

Volunteering also boosts happiness. A 2020 report from the Corporation for National and Community Service found that volunteers report greater life satisfaction and lower rates of depression than non-volunteers.

Social connection is another powerful benefit. Volunteers often report feeling more connected to others, reducing feelings of isolation. That’s particularly meaningful in a world where loneliness is increasingly recognized as a public health concern.

And speaking of health — volunteering is good for you! Research shows that those who volunteer have lower blood pressure and reduced stress levels. They’re also more likely to engage in physical activity, which improves heart health. Volunteering may even help people live longer; a study from Carnegie Mellon University found that adults over 50 who volunteer regularly are less likely to develop high blood pressure. In short, helping others can boost both your physical and mental well-being.

I may be a little biased, but I believe Florida Master Gardener Volunteers are some of the most dedicated volunteers around. They give their time so generously to help Floridians learn about horticulture and solve their gardening challenges. But their impact goes beyond troubleshooting plant problems. These peer-to-peer connections help new gardeners feel supported and inspired, while also giving experienced gardeners fresh ideas and renewed confidence.

So this April, whether you’re digging in the dirt or digging into community service, take a moment to appreciate the gardeners and volunteers who help Florida thrive. And if you haven’t volunteered yet, maybe this is your season to start.

— Wendy Wilber