Blossoming Volunteers

Keeping the 150-acre grounds of Descanso Gardens in top condition is no easy task, but with the contributions of Tierra volunteers, Matthew Lawrence and Jessica Sears, the staff at this urban retreat are getting the help they need to get the job done.

What started as only a few days a week, has evolved into a four-day work-week schedule.  Tierra Coach, Rosa Bravo, shares, “Jessica and Matthew have come a long way since they began working at Descanso Gardens.  Initially, it was challenging for Jessica to adjust to volunteering here, but the environment was a great fit.  Matthew has trouble focusing – he loves to converse on the job.  Now, he does his best to concentrate, works hard, and even learned how to use the more sophisticated gardening tools that the horticulturists use.  In addition to being a fast learner, he’s very helpful.  Jessica and Matthew make a great team, and have a good reputation.”

“I see Matthew and Jessica almost every day.  They perform a variety of tasks that range from pulling weeds in the Camellia Forest to patrolling the Gardens to making sure the grounds are spotless. Any job they take on, they do with earnestness, efficiency, and positivity. They are a hard working group and have been a joy to work with.”

– Felix Schroeder, Descanso Gardens Volunteer Coordinator

      

Jessica shares, “I like my job.  Hearing the birds, being in nature…and I enjoy working with Matthew.”  Matthew echoes Jessica’s sentiments, “It’s fun, the people are nice, and I like working with Jessica too!”