Garden Center Association of Greater Kansas City

Mission: To promote and encourage among citizens of the Metropolitan Kansa City area an interest in horticulture and related gardening activities in order to educate all ages how to develop, appreciate and sustain a community that is environmentally sound, a desirable place to live, and an attractive tourist destination thereby responsibly helping Kansas City to develop and prosper.
Programs: - 1 day environmental camp in Loose Park created for low income urban children - Guided exploration of trees in Loose Park learning about their usefulness, beauty and differences - Guided orienteering activities - Craft activities - Week of June 23-27 in 2008 (1st full Tree Camp Session) - Last full week of June in 2009 - Hours 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. - Suitable for children ages 4-12 - 80% plus campers are from low income homes in Kansas City, MO - Campers come from the Parks and Recreation Dept’s Summer Youth Programs - 150 campers in 2008 - 150 campers in 2009 - Counselor’s are professional educators - Master Gardeners and volunteers help counselors - Student Service credit available - Two Field Explorers Guide booklets created by the Garden Center Tree Camp Committee to be used for the camp and also to be available in the Garden Center Building for visitors to Loose Park.