Milestone Mix & Mingle Membership Event

On a stunning fall evening, nearly 200 members of the Friends of the Arboretum joined us for our Milestone Mix & Mingle Membership Event on October 8, 2024. The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens’ vibrant autumn colors and crisp air set the perfect backdrop for a night dedicated to celebrating some of our organization’s most significant achievements with those who make it all possible—our incredible FOTA members.

We came together at the LongHouse Visitor Center to honor a year of special milestones, starting with LongHouse’s own one-year anniversary. This cornerstone of the Arboretum has truly transformed the visitor experience, providing a welcoming space for education, reflection, and connection with nature. Alongside this celebration, we marked the upcoming 25th anniversary of our beloved Luminary Walk, an event that has become a community favorite for celebrating the beauty of winter nights.

But that wasn’t all—we reflected on the history and beauty within our cherished gardens as we celebrated anniversaries in the Cohen Iris Garden, the Peony Garden, and the Environmental Education Center. Each space represents years of dedication to preserving and enhancing our natural surroundings, and each anniversary reminds us of the legacy we are creating together.

At the heart of all these accomplishments are our members. Every membership, every visit, and every volunteer hour adds to our community and supports the continued growth and success of the Arboretum. The Milestone Mix & Mingle was our way of saying thank you—to honor the support, passion, and vision our members bring to the Arboretum. The night was filled with conversation, laughter, and gratitude, with members and staff alike reflecting on our shared journey and looking forward to the exciting growth ahead.

Together, we’re growing something truly special here at the Overland Park Arboretum, and we’re so grateful for the members who walk alongside us. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable evening of celebration and community! 

Interested in learning more about FOTA’s mission and how you can get involved? Visit our website or reach out to us to discover the many ways you can contribute to our vision and make a difference in our community!