The Winooski Gardening Group
The Winooski Gardening Group from L to R: Jean Heintz, Judith Lance, Prudence Doherty, Ann Pearce, and Sue O’Brien.
Not pictured: Paul Rabidoux, Cara Montague, Marisa Brenk, Michele Polardy
The Winooski Gardening Group, previously known as ‘Operation Bloom’, is one of Winooski’s most dedicated volunteer groups. Since 1997, their mission to beautify public and right-of-way spaces has supported our legacy of welcoming and opportunity for decades. Organized by Sue O’Brien and Janet Kane Farrell, the Winooski Gardening Group plants annuals, perennials, and shrubs throughout the community, creating welcoming spaces for our residents and visitors to enjoy. With administrative and operational support from City staff, the Winooski Gardening Group is able to ensure that each space is maintained during the spring and summer months.
“The Winooski Gardening group is an example of the difference that individuals and groups of individuals can have to better their community. Gardening is such a gratifying and Zen-like outdoor activity. We love getting shouts of ‘thank you!’, and ‘looks great!’ from passing vehicles; it is truly a unique and meaningful experience. We are a fun group who love our city and will always work to make it beautiful and inviting!”
- Sue O’Brien, Volunteer Coordinator
2019 Plant Swap at Richards Park
The Winooski Gardening Group has provided meaningful and engaging volunteer opportunities for so many community members! Please join us in thanking the Group’s past members for their years of dedication and community service: Janet Kane Farrell, Eileen Andreoli, Jim Trzepacz, Petie Shea Gamache, Gerry Viens, Sylvia Arnold, Nikki Ducharme, Morgan Kellner, Jodi Harrington, Bobbi Perez, Karen Claxton, Maura McManus, Caitlyn Clark, Andrea Dimedio, and Holly Bartlett.
‘97 - ‘99 Operation Bloom Photos from Sue O’Brien’s Personal Collection
Get Involved!
The Winooski Gardening Group is always looking for community volunteers to join. Interested in helping keep Winooski beautiful and welcoming? Feel free to join the Winooski Gardening Facebook Group. You can learn about their annual Plant Swap events, seasonal weeding sessions, and other gardening events! If you’d like to join, please email Sue O'Brien: suecarterob11@gmail.com
