Spotlight on Shiva Moshtael

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 to the community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight Shiva Moshtael, a dedicated Friend of Robinson Gardens and Board Member. Shiva, along with Ellen Levitt and Patty Elias, is in charge of the Concierge level of our 2019 Garden Tour – Oh! Naturale.

We asked her these three questions:

1.  How did you first learn about VRG, and what inspired you to become a Friend?

 I was introduced to VRG about 20 years ago through my dear friend Claudia Deutsch.  I attended a few events as Claudia’s guest, and one night over dinner at Claudia’s, I had the pleasure of meeting Ivo. After Claudia and Ivo’s warm invitation to become a member, how could I not join!

2.  What’s your role – How do you contribute to VRG?

I certainly consider myself lucky to be in the company of such remarkable women over the last twenty years. I have contributed in different positions, such as a board member and Vice President, as well as co-chairing several different committees. I even have had the pleasure of co-chairing the Garden Tour twice! I have co-chaired the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles monthly visits for a couple of years, and it was a profound experience. I was also in charge of all print materials for the Garden Tour and the Gala, including all invitations, tickets, and a small Garden Tour book for a few years.

I have co-chaired the children’s Holiday event for a couple of years as well and really enjoyed the special time with the children.  When the VRG board decided to create the Concierge level, I was involved with the help of other members in executing this new tier of tickets and the arrangements for Concierge guests. Of course, the Concierge level has evolved with the help of amazingly capable members. So in the past few years, I have been a part of the Concierge committee. I have truly enjoyed each of these roles, and look forward to continuing to contribute to the VRG for many years to come.

3. Can you share a favorite VRG memory with us?

I have had so many very special memories from working with amazing ladies that it is very difficult to narrow it down to only one! Among my favorites has to be volunteering at the Children’s Holiday party. I will never forget the beautiful faces of those girls when they opened their backpacks to find the gifts they had asked for from Santa!

Overall, I am grateful for the friendships that I have made at VRG, and I feel privileged to not only be in the company of the VRG members, but to also have been given the opportunity to contribute to this very special organization.