Client Stories

VanDusen Botanical Garden

“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world” – John Muir (1838-1914)

On September 29, 2018, Burnaby SWIS (Settlement Worker in School) brought a group of new immigrant students and parents to the VanDusen Botanical Garden located at 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver BC. Entering the Visitor Centre, an orchid leaf shaped building, we were greeted by this quote printed on the floor close to Admission front desk, and a warm smiling staff Stephanie from the Field Trip Coordinating team. Many thanks also go to Devon Deckant, VanDusen Field Trip Coordinator, who granted us the opportunity of the bursary program and made this field trip possible.
The whole group was immediately fascinated by this “green” building with an harmonious balance between architecture and landscape, which uses less energy, water and fewer natural resources, produces less waste and creates a healthier, non-toxic indoor environment. Then we went on a relaxing self-guided tour into the 55 acre man-made botanical garden full of rich collections and variety of wondrous plants from all over the world. Everyone was grateful for this educational and exploring experience. The kids especially enjoyed the Maze at the southwest corner of the garden! See the smiles on these photos!