Why GardenComm?
How Extension Staff & Master Gardeners Benefits from GardenComm
CONNECTIONS WITH EXTENTION STAFF AND MASTER GARDENERS Many GardenComm members are also volunteer master gardeners or Extension Agents/Specialists. They network with each other during events and communicate with the public.
WRITING SKILLS GardenComm conference sessions, online learning “power circles,” and networking can help sharpen blog and newsletter writing skills. Writing abilities can be learned and improved, even by those who don’t consider themselves to be writers.
SPEAKING SKILLS Some GardenComm meetings and power circles focus on speaking skills, and these can assist master gardeners and extension specialists to present better educational programs.
IT’S A VISUAL WORLD Good photography techniques and building a library of photos are key for every garden lover...and in situations where master gardeners and Extension Services have blogs, websites, and post on social networks, they are essential. Improving photography skills, photo handling, software and more are topics regularly covered in GardenComm meetings and other learning opportunities.
MEASURING THE PULSE OF THE INDUSTRY GardenComm keeps Extension staff and master gardeners informed about what’s happening in the industry. Learn about new plants, products, problems, and consumer trends from member emails, forums, and meetings.
GROWING PUBLIC CONNECTIONS Since GardenComm is all about communication, this organization serves those who routinely work with the public about plants and gardening. GardenComm members learn better ways to convey garden information to beginners, and find different approaches to bring the excitement about plants and gardening to a younger audience.
GET ON THE AIR Some GardenComm members host radio programs or podcasts. This is another way to position your master gardener group as local experts. Talk with radio hosts at GardenComm meetings about how you can host a gardening program on the air or create your own master gardener podcast.
RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES Let’s face it…spring is a busy time for gardeners. By August or September, you’re ready for a break! GardenComm symposiums provide access to colorful gardens in many parts of North America at the time when you can actually get away. Our meetings take place in different locations every year, allowing for interesting travel that fits into your growing season.
Maximizing Your Membership
After you've joined, here are three ways to get connected...
- Reach out in our members only forum (the “Communities” page under “Member’s Resources” on the website) and start a conversation. Introduce yourself and your garden. Ask questions and get feedback from other GardenComm members.
- Form or join a special interest group with other members. These are called GardenComm Power Circles and they meet remotely via conference calls, webinars or Skype. There are many special-interest topics and new ones added frequently. Are you interested in brainstorming about programs, newsletters, botanical garden blogs or other pertinent topics? Or perhaps you’d like to be part of a general Extension Power Circle. Learn more here or contact GardenComm at 212.297.2198 or info@gardencomm.org.
- Attend regional and national meetings when possible. Regional meetings are smaller, and will provide a taste of what GardenComm is all about
GardenComm offers many other opportunities and benefits including legal advice, travel discounts and so much more. Whatever you want to grow, and wherever you want to go, GardenComm is ready to help.