Everyone has their own reason for spending time in Washington Square Park. Maybe it’s your favorite reading spot, your meet-up point with friends, or where you take your dog to play.

But what makes an avid gardener, with access to green space on her building’s roof and backyard, want to stick her hands in the dirt at Washington Square Park?

For WSPC Wednesday Weeder, Linda, it’s the allure of the urban garden and the connection it provides to her community. 

Linda, getting down in the dirt with her fellow weeders

“Giving back to your community feels different than just being in your own space. You’re helping to make something beautiful for everyone. And it’s fascinating to learn how a large landscape area like Washington Square Park gets put together and continues to thrive.”

Linda found the Wednesday Weeder volunteer program thanks to another community green-thumb, fellow Weeder Rob. “He knew I liked to garden, and he’s a great ambassador for the program. He talked me into at least learning more.” And she’s glad she did.

At first daunted by the commitment and pressure of gardening in an iconic garden like Washington Square Park, Linda’s worries were quickly dissipated. “The other volunteers and the staff make a great team. We learn from each other and help each other, it’s just a great time. And Gui, the Head Gardener, has so much knowledge, he’s a good resource.”

As a member of a committed WSPC volunteer program, Linda spends at least 6 hours a month getting up close and personal with the flora of the Park. “There’s always something new to do and learn, the Park is always changing and I like feeling like I’m part of that,” says Linda. “It’s a very gratifying feeling to be part of an effort that makes something unique and beautiful.

And the expert tips on what to grow in her own garden never hurt.

Linda found her reasons to give back in Washington Square Park, what are yours? Find out more about our volunteer opportunities here, and hope to see you in the Park soon!