On a chilly morning in December, volunteers and homeowners gathered in the brand-new neighborhood of Haven Place, a 35-home community along Castle Hayne Road. Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with New Hanover County, helped to make homeownership a reality for families in our community. Extension volunteers were invited to provide education and help plant a berm along the road to serve as a visual and sound buffer for residents. Assisted by our Extension Master Gardener℠ Nature at Home team, Habitat volunteers and residents planted fifty yaupon hollies, wax myrtles, and Carolina cherry laurels alongside live oaks, creating a rich habitat for wildlife and a lasting community benefit.

Moments like this are a reminder that while N.C. Cooperative Extension programs may begin with research and education from NC State University, their true impact is realized through the generosity of volunteers who bring that work to life across our county. Our horticulture program boasts the largest Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer base in the state, with over 200 certified volunteers assisting residents with horticulture-related questions. More than 5,000 clients were helped this year through in-person Plant Clinics at the New Hanover County Arboretum and remote clinics at the Wilmington Farmers’ Market and Farmer’s Supply. These dedicated volunteers assist our Horticulture Agent by helping residents select the right plants for their spaces, care for their landscapes, and diagnose plant diseases.

Our beautiful Arboretum gardens would not be possible without the work of many hands caring for them throughout the year. The Japanese Garden, a favorite among visitors, is maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers who meet weekly, rain or shine, to tend this serene space and provide a peaceful respite in our busy town. The Tuesday Group, Native Garden Group, Pollinator Team, Herb Garden Group, and Carpenters all contribute countless hours in support of the Arboretum’s educational mission. Others lend their time and talents in different but equally important ways, whether through service on the Friends of the Arboretum board, participation in our Advisory Council, or by volunteering in the Gift Shop.

Throughout the past year, Extension volunteers have supported youth development, shared gardening knowledge, assisted with community projects, and helped neighbors solve everyday challenges. From mentoring young people in 4-H programs to answering horticulture questions, leading workshops, and supporting conservation efforts, volunteers serve as trusted connectors between Extension and the community. Their time and expertise allow Extension to reach far beyond what staff alone could accomplish.

As we reflect on the past year, we are deeply grateful for the volunteers who choose to share their time and talents with Cooperative Extension at the New Hanover County Arboretum. Volunteers are truly the heart of Cooperative Extension, extending our reach, deepening our impact, and strengthening our community. As we look ahead to the coming year, volunteers will continue to be essential to Extension’s work, helping us respond to new challenges, grow new programs, and strengthen the connections that make our community thrive.

Amy Mead is the County Extension Director in New Hanover County. She can be reached at afmead@ncsu.edu. The Arboretum grounds are free and open daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.