Salem Friendship and Garden Club

The Salem Friendship and Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Salem, New Hampshire. Its primary mission is to foster meaningful connections among its members through social activities and community service projects focused on gardening, horticulture, and conservation.

History

The Salem Friendship and Garden Club emerged from the historical Salem Garden Club, which was established in 1954. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the original club faced challenges that led to its temporary closure. However, inspired by a desire to revitalize community engagement and support environmental initiatives, the Salem Friendship and Garden Club was founded to continue and expand upon the original club's goals. This new iteration aimed to not only promote gardening and conservation but also to create a social network for its members.

Objectives

The club's objectives are multifaceted:

• Community Engagement: To build friendships and connections among members through social activities.
• Environmental Conservation: To enhance the beauty of the town by establishing gardens, particularly pollinator gardens, which provide essential habitats for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
• Education and Awareness: To educate the public on the importance of pollinators and the role of pollinator gardens in supporting local ecosystems.

Activities

Activities include regular meetings, community service projects, and fundraising events. The club has worked on notable projects such as the Salem Rail Trail, enhancing town entrances, and revitalizing public spaces like Abnaki Park. Additionally, members participate in educational initiatives, such as creating informative plaques for pollinator gardens and engaging in community events like parades to raise awareness about pollinators.

Impact

By focusing on both social and environmental goals, the Salem Friendship and Garden Club has become a vital part of the community, enhancing local beautification efforts while fostering a sense of unity among residents. The club's initiatives aim to ensure a sustainable and vibrant environment for future generations by promoting gardening practices that benefit local wildlife and ecosystems.

[1] https://sfgc-nh.org [2] https://thepollinationproject.org/helping-pollinators-in-new-hampshire/ [3] https://www.salemgardenclub.com/monthly-programs/ [4] https://www.rsfgardenclub.org [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/93-3710025