Chicago Botanic Garden’s Military Appreciation Day with USO Discovery Kids

A Partnership between the Garden and USO of Illinois, expressing our appreciation for those who serve

August 6, 2011

On Saturday, August 6, with the generous support of the Tawani Foundation, active and recently returned members of the military, their spouses, and children of all ages will spend a day at the Garden.

While here, military families will enjoy a Grand Tram tour, visit the Landmarks of America Model Railroad Garden, and enjoy a relaxing lunch with other military families. They also will have time to explore the Garden’s 24 display gardens as well as the Plant Science Center, according to their own interests, and at their own pace.

Everyone will be invited to join an activity created specially for military families. In the Buehler Enabling Garden, designed for people of all ages and abilities, the families will create a “dish” garden. These small gardens (created in a small, shallow container or dish) will feature one plant representing each family member, including those unable to attend because they are deployed or absent. The families will take their gardens home, with written instructions on how to care for their plants, and with memories of the time they spent together—in nature.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is pleased to support this national initiative sponsored by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden. The goal of their initiative is to mobilize all sectors of society to give service members and their families the opportunities and support they have earned. The USO has long supported this goal. An important part of its mission—creating a cooperative relationship between military communities and civilian communities—makes USO of Illinois our ideal partner in this important event. The Garden welcomes military families and appreciates their efforts and sacrifices.