Spotlight on Betty Goldstein

Each month we will spotlight a volunteer, staff member, donor or sponsor of Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG)—those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you, the reader, know a little bit about these wonderful people and corporations that give so much to the Virginia Robinson Gardens and community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight Betty Goldstein, a dedicated Friend of Robinson Gardens and Board Member. We asked her these three questions:

HOW DID YOU FIRST LEARN ABOUT VRG AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A FRIEND? 

It all started with Garden Tour. A group of friends and I went to Garden Tour each year. It was always one of my “look forward to” pleasures. As the years passed, my group of friends changed, but I never missed a year.  I wanted to become involved and discovered the docent program. As an adult docent, I like sharing the history and beautiful gardens with others hoping they will love and enjoy the gardens as much as I do.

I started coming to the Education Lectures and met many of the Friends. Kerstin Royce invited me to become a Friend which I did with great interest and pleasure.

WHAT’S YOUR ROLE – HOW DO YOU CONTRIBUTE TO VRG? 

My first job with the Friends was to plan the Membership Luncheon which I did with my co-chair Patty Elias Rosenfeld. I am doing it again this October with Lynn Whitaker and Diedre Gordon.  I have worked on Garden Tour doing signs, pre-tour and garden hosts. At the Gala, I helped with the auction. This year I am Corporate Secretary, and next year I will be Vice President. I am also a children’s docent, adult docent and special tours docent.

CAN YOU SHARE A FAVORITE VRG MEMORY WITH US? 

It is hard for me to pick one favorite memory. I am thrilled when during their tour, the children get excited when they find the “giraffe” in the Palm Forest or learn how the old organ cactus is pollinated. They are just so excited, and I am happy to be part of their joy.

Virginia’s story fascinates me, and I have always felt so comfortable here at the gardens. It is so beautiful, peaceful and just seems to “fit me,” and she and I almost share a birthday!