How to order a Hanging Basket

Staff Report

Since 1999, the City of Gardens Hanging Basket Program has blossomed from 18 experimental baskets to more than 225 baskets that line our downtown and surrounding area streets and bridges.

Remember how the downtown area was enhanced last spring and summer with the gorgeous hanging baskets, cascading flowers and pleasant aromas? With support from people like you, the program continues to make Rockford a great place to live, work and play. Spring offers us more time to connect with nature, walk in our gardens, and enjoy the simple things in life–like flowers.

Hanging Basket Program fast facts

This community beautification program began with 18 baskets in 1999 and grew to 225 in 2009. It became a model for other communities, was recognized nationally by America in Bloom and the state Hometown Award for volunteerism. The program is primarily funded through donations. It creates a welcoming and positive image, and is a cost-effective agent for changing negative perceptions of an area and improving psychosocial health. Your tax-deductible donation offsets the cost of planting, hanging, maintenance and watering of each basket.

As the poet Algernon Swinburne said, “For winter’s rains and ruins are over… Blossom by blossom the spring begins.” You can be a part of it, and your gift helps make our community a better place. Studies continue to show the benefits of flowers and beautification. They create a sense of civic pride, enhance our mood, and provide overall enjoyment. Bill O’Donnell, retired professional engineer, agreed. He said, “Flowers subliminally affect our well-being through their exquisite beauty, delicate texture and intoxicating fragrance. All of which quiet the brain, calm the soul, and bring peace to all.”

What you can do to help

To ensure the success of the hanging basket program and the City of Gardens continuing efforts to improve quality of life here, your investment is invited. The Hanging Basket Program is primarily funded through donations. Despite rising costs, the donation request per basket is the same–$125. Your tax-deductible donation offsets the cost of planting, hanging, maintenance, and watering of each flower basket. If you are unable to finance a complete basket this year, partial donations to support beautification projects in the Rockford area are welcome.

The Rockford Park District Foundation is pleased to support this ongoing program. If you have questions, you may call Ruth Miller at (815) 987-1689 or Kelly Moore at (815) 987-1670. You can send a donation by mail, making checks payable to City of Gardens, and mail to: City of Gardens, Rockford Park District Foundation, 401 S. Main St., Ste. 112, Rockford, IL 61101-1321. Visa and MasterCard donations are accepted.

From the April 27-May 3, 2011, issue