Anderson Japanese Gardens

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Board of Directors

James Thiede
Wachovia Securities

John Anderson
Spring Creek Partners

Duane Bach
Spring Creek Partners

Thomas Furst
Furst Group

Tom Kalousek
WCFPD

Judge Frederick Kapala

Dan Loescher
Loescher & Associates, LTD.

Volunteer Program
Anderson Japanese Gardens is considered one of the finest examples of Japanese gardens outside of Japan. From the moment you enter the garden until the time you leave you will find yourself amongst the beauty of nature. The Japanese culture is represented by the guest house, tea house, stone lanterns and water basins through out the garden. Anderson Japanese Gardens is currently looking for volunteers to help the gardens come alive for the visitors. We recognize the importance of volunteers and could not function with out their service. This brochure is designed to answer the most common questions about volunteering at Anderson Japanese Gardens.

What do volunteers do?
Volunteers work as tour guides and assist in the Blue Iris Gift Shop. Tour guides lead group tours of about 15 people. When not leading a tour, guides assist visitors by answering questions and offering explanations on aspects of the garden which visitors are apt to be unfamiliar.

What is required?
Knowledge of horticulture or Japanese culture is not required and we welcome people of all skill and age levels. This is an authentic Japanese garden with potential hazards including steps, winding paths and bridges. Volunteers must be able to safely navigate the terrain. Anderson Japanese Gardens is open daily from May 1st to October 31st. Each day consists of two 4 hour shifts (morning and afternoon). We encourage volunteers to commit to one shift a week. However, with busy schedules that is not always possible but we do require two shifts a month.

Will I receive training?
Volunteers present critical information to garden guests and we are committed to training our volunteers. All volunteers receive a packet of general information about the garden including aspects of horticulture and Japanese culture.

What are the benefits?
Some of the many benefits of volunteering include:
Meeting a variety of people from around the world while teaching and learning about cultural and horticultural topics. The opportunity to meet a dynamic group of volunteers who share similar interests as yourself. Membership Benefits: Unlimited access to Anderson Japanese Gardens during regular operating hours–valid for for one year. Free admission to other gardens participating in The American Horticulture Society's Reciprocal Gardens Program. A complimentary pass for two to the garden for you to give to a family member or friend. Bookmarks and notecards featuring pictures of Anderson Japanese Gardens.

How do I become a volunteer?
If you are interested in giving your time and energy, or would like more information about volunteering we would like to talk to you. To become a volunteer please call: Anderson Japanese Gardens at 815-229-9390

Membership Program
Anderson Japanese Gardens is now considered one of the premier Japanese Gardens outside of Japan. Many thousands of people visit Anderson Japanese Gardens every year. The garden provides a unique learning experience for children and adults alike. We open the minds of our visitors to learn from other cultures around the world.

Anderson Japanese Gardens offers its visitors a place to experience firsthand the unique nature of Japanese gardens, and in so doing, feel peace, tranquility and a renewed appreciation of nature. Our visitors are lead away from the stresses of everyday life as the garden instills a sense of calm and provides a place for quiet meditation.

This is not a one-time experience, but rather a peaceful and beautiful setting to visit throughout our season. A membership is a perfect way to experience the garden at various times of the year. Also, memberships make a wonderful gift to give to a friend, family member, or an employee. There are several levels of memberships available please choose the category most enjoyable for your needs.

We at Anderson Japanese Gardens thank you for your support.

Brenda Warren
Director of Administration and Visitor Services

Membership Benefits
Unlimited access to Anderson Japanese Gardens during regular operating hours–valid for for one year. Free admission to other gardens participating in The American Horticulture Society's Reciprocal Gardens Program. A complimentary pass for two to the garden for you to give to a family member or friend. Bookmarks and notecards featuring pictures of Anderson Japanese Gardens.

Membership Info
-Membership categories
-Individual Senior (62+) $25.00
-Individual Adult $40.00
-Family $75.00
-Student $30.00

Membership Categories

Senior $25.00: All the above benefits for one named individual aged 62 or older.
Student $30.00: All of the above benefits for one named student of any age. Student ID may be required.
Individual $40.00: All of the above benefits for one named individual.
Family $75.00: All of the above benefits for two adults and members’ children under the age of 18.

Corporate memberships now available!

To purchase a membership, visit the garden or complete the attached form and mail or fax it with payment to Anderson Japanese Gardens. Please allow two weeks for processing. Thank you for your support.
Contact | Hours/Fees | Directions | More About AJG | FAQ's | Events | Tours | Classes