Spotlight on Jane Rascoff

Each month, we spotlight a volunteer, staff member, docent, donor, or sponsor of the Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG) — those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you know 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 Jane Rascoff, a wonderful and dedicated Board Member and a Fellow Member of The Friends of Robinson Gardens. She is also a Children’s Docent and kindly volunteers as a hostess at Garden Tour.

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

When we first moved to LA from La Jolla, I was looking for a meaningful “hands-on” volunteer project. My husband spotted an article in the Beverly Hills Courier that said they were looking for docents to lead school tours. As an ex-teacher of science who adored gardening, it was the perfect opportunity!

2. What is your role – how do you contribute to VRG? 

My adored job is taking elementary students through our amazing grounds. We discuss the water cycle, the amazing role of insects, tadpoles, our chickens, and our vegetable garden. They love using their binoculars hanging around their neck to examine anything and everything! The excitement the students have when we plant those bean seeds in a milk container and then take them home!

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

During Covid, when tours stopped, I was thrilled to assist putting together our science loose-leaf notebooks and materials to do simple experiments in their classroom. We also discuss healthy food choices and how we can do our role to preserve the environment. Sharing all of this with students that have never been exposed to our incredible home is exhilarating!