The (GHHWA) is currently looking for additional volunteers to join its efforts and help maintain the hanging flower baskets around downtown Gig Harbor this summer. Over the years, the organization has recruited and trained property owners, local businesses and private citizens who managed the baskets on a daily basis.
“Part of the mission of the GHHWA is to preserve and enhance the existing character of the waterfront district,” wrote GHHWA Executive Director Mary DesMarais. “In pursuit of that goal, over the last three summers the GHHWA purchased and maintained the beautiful hanging baskets that grace our waterfront from May through September.”
The flower baskets are ordered and will be delivered in late May. Daily watering will begin as soon as the City Public Works Department hangs the baskets. Watering route and equipment orientation and training will also take place in May.
What does it take to be a volunteer for this program?
- Filling out a volunteer form that will be submitted to the City of Gig Harbor Park’s Department
- Training on the watering truck and watering process
- Committing to a specific time that you will be responsible for watering (once a week, once a month, etc.)
- A desire to do something for your community.
Daily watering of the 80 baskets takes about 3 hours and begins at 5 a.m. (before the traffic starts rolling and the parking spots are filled). You will work with a partner (one to drive and one to water) and will enjoy the experience of watching the harbor wake up during your shift.
All volunteer activities will be coordinated by the GHHWA with the City providing the watering equipment.
DesMarais also said volunteers and contributors will be recognized in its newsletter, press releases, by the city, etc.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the GHHWA watering crew or would like to donate toward the purchase of the baskets, contact the office at 253-514-0071 or info@ghhwa.org.
