Council of Rockford Gardeners

The Council of Rockford Gardeners is a nonprofit organization designated as a 501(c)(4) civic league, social welfare organization, and local association of employees[4]. Its primary mission is to promote community beautification, support environmental conservation, and foster gardening initiatives in the Rockford area[5].

History and Activities

Established with a focus on community engagement and gardening, the Council of Rockford Gardeners has been organizing events to promote gardening culture for over four decades. One of its most notable annual events is the Garden Walk, a free event held on the first Wednesday after July 4th, which attracts thousands of visitors[1].

Garden Walk Event

The Garden Walk event is a summer tradition that showcases a variety of local gardens. Over the years, more than 240 gardens have been featured, attracting around 30,000 visitors annually. The event is open to all ages and takes place rain or shine. Included in the walk are diverse gardens with unique plant collections, many designed for low maintenance, drought tolerance, and wildlife attraction[1].

Community Impact

Through its initiatives, the Council of Rockford Gardeners plays a significant role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Rockford area while promoting environmental awareness. The organization encourages community participation in gardening and supports local gardeners in creating beautiful outdoor spaces[5].

Governance and Structure

As a 501(c)(4) organization, the Council operates within the framework provided for civic leagues and social welfare organizations. This designation allows it to engage in activities that benefit the community, often focusing on issues related to gardening and environmental conservation[4]. However, detailed information on its governance structure, such as board composition or specific operational policies, is not publicly available.

[1] http://councilofrockfordgardeners.org/garden-walk/ [2] https://www.leadershipcouncil.us/bold/mission-accomplished/mission-accomplished/ [3] https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/files/media/documents/2025/nonprofit-open-letter-to-119th-congress-with-signers.pdf [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/363220013 [5] https://www.causeiq.com/directory/garden-clubs-list/rockford-il-metro/