Some milestones deserve more than recognition; they deserve celebration.
This year, Friends of UBC Botanical Garden (FOGs) marks an extraordinary 50 years of volunteer service. For half a century, volunteers have shared their time, talents and passion in support of UBC Botanical Garden, helping shape the experiences, programs and community connections that define the Garden today.
What began as a shared love of plants and gardening has grown into a vibrant community connected by purpose, generosity and a commitment to supporting UBC Botanical Garden’s mission of inspiring communities, ideas and actions for a more resilient, biodiverse world.
A Community Takes Root
The story of FOGs began in 1976 when Garden Director, Dr. Roy Taylor, invited community members to help support the Garden’s educational and outreach activities. A small group answered that call, beginning a volunteer organization that continues to support the Garden today.
While programs, projects and priorities have evolved, the heart of FOGs has remained remarkably consistent: people coming together in service of something larger than themselves.
This philosophy has brought consistency and growth, as reflected in the projects accomplished through the years. In 1977, Friends of the Garden began collecting and packaging seeds, a program that now offers about 80 varieties and nearly 900 seed packets each year. In 1981, a dedicated FOG committee brought the Physic Garden to life, drawing inspiration from a 16th-century Dutch monastery garden and sourcing seeds from London’s Chelsea Physic Garden.
Service, Support and Stability: A Legacy You Can See
This anniversary year also marks the launch of the first-ever official Friends of the Garden logo; a symbol of the values that have inspired FOGs for five decades: service, support and stability.
Fittingly, the logo itself is a product of partnership. Led by UBC Botanical Garden’s Marketing & Communications team and shaped through the guidance and support of the FOGs’ Marketing and Executive Committee and the Garden’s Senior Leadership Team, it was developed to celebrate 50 years of service while carrying the spirit of FOGs into the future.
The design reflects the story of the Friends of the Garden and the values that continue to guide the organization.
Service is reflected in the dedication of volunteers who have shared their time, expertise and passion to help UBC Botanical Garden thrive.
Support speaks to the countless ways FOGs has advanced the Garden’s mission through fundraising, education, advocacy and community engagement.
Stability reflects a remarkable 50 years of commitment, stewardship, and friendship that continues to strengthen the Garden today.
The logo’s flowing circular form represents guidance, movement and natural harmony. An embracing arc symbolizes the ongoing support and legacy of FOGs, reflecting the enduring connection between volunteers and the Garden.
The crest-inspired design reflects the continuity and timelessness that have defined Friends of the Garden since 1976.
The leaf illustration carries a special story. Generously contributed by one of our beloved FOG members, the artwork became a favourite within the volunteer community and now serves as a lasting reminder of the creativity, generosity and personal touch that Friends of the Garden brings to everything it does.
For a 50th anniversary, it is fitting that the logo itself was shaped through collaboration, guided by shared purpose and inspired by the people who continue to make Friends of the Garden such an important part of UBC Botanical Garden’s story.
Growing a Community Tradition
The anniversary year also coincides with another remarkable milestone: the 35th anniversary of Apple Festival.
First established through the vision and dedication of FOG volunteers, Apple Festival has grown into one of Metro Vancouver’s most beloved fall traditions. What began as a celebration of heritage apples now welcomes thousands of visitors each year, connecting communities to biodiversity, food literacy and the natural world.
Apple Festival has become a cherished annual tradition for many families and demonstrates how volunteers can create lasting community experiences.
Learn more about the history of Apple Festival and its community impact.
A Celebration of Legacy and Friendship
Every milestone deserves a celebration; especially one that honours decades of friendship and the many hands and hearts that have helped shape this remarkable journey.
On June 10, more than 100 Friends of the Garden volunteers and Garden staff gathered for a special 50th Anniversary Luncheon. The event featured guest speakers, special prizes and an anniversary toast led by David Tarrant, FOG President Alison Buchan and Garden Director Dee Ann Benard.
The gathering was an opportunity to reflect on five decades of friendship, volunteer service and fundraising support that have helped advance the Garden’s mission. It also offered a glimpse into the future, including a symbolic anniversary gift that reflects the same qualities FOGs have embodied for 50 years: support, strength and stability.
See more of the FOGS 50th Luncheon Anniversary here.
Beyond 50 Years
While this anniversary celebrates an extraordinary past, it is equally a celebration of what lies ahead.
We invite you to explore the Friends of the Garden Timeline, discover the stories and milestones that have shaped the organization over the past five decades, and learn more about the many ways volunteers continue to contribute to UBC Botanical Garden.
Fifty years are more than a milestone; it is a story of connection, contribution and the enduring impact of a community that continues to make a difference.
Written By:
Jen Chang
Marketing and Communications, Senior Manager
