About FOCG
What is “Friends of the Coastal Gardens”?
Friends of the Coastal Gardens (FOCG) is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization formed for the purpose of supporting growth and development of the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens. Its membership includes citizens from various backgrounds who appreciate the horticultural projects and educational and family-oriented programs provided. The Friends help through volunteer work and fundraising activities.
Our Mission
The Friends of the Coastal Gardens “provide financial and human resources to support the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens at the Historic Bamboo Farm.”
What Do The Friends Do?
Donations — either in large gifts from individuals or through proceeds from Friends’ fundraising events– have facilitated many new garden expansion projects. In the last few years, Friends’ support led to the creation of the Formal and White Gardens, Woodland Shade Garden, handicap-accessible crushed gravel walkways, new garden directional signage and more teak benches.
Friends volunteers also help manage specific garden areas, assist in greenhouse or grounds maintenance projects, conduct group educational tours, lead parts of the ‘Roots & Shoots’ program for schoolkids, and a wide array of special fundraising events and activities.
The Friends play a valuable role in events such as the Friends Gala, the Strawberry Supper, Wild Game and Fish Fry Dinner, Autumn Gardenfest and December Nights & Holiday Lights. Young children, families, seniors, garden clubs, students, teachers, homeowners, professionals and botanical garden visitors all benefit from the programs and events the Friends members help sponsor.