News

Meet the ARFOP Board: Ken Selzer

Ken Selzer is a dedicated and accomplished board member with a wealth of experience in both the private and public sectors. His extensive background in fundraising, organization, business, and leadership uniquely qualifies him to contribute meaningfully to ARFOP’s mission. Ken Selzer is a Certified Public Accountant and experienced leader who served as the Kansas Insurance … Read More

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 … Read More

The ARFOP Mission Extends to Germany

A note from the Foundation’s Board President, Phil Bressler: On behalf of the entire ARFOP organization, I was fortunate enough to join the City of Overland Park delegation in late August to visit our sister city, Bietigheim-Bissingen, located just outside of Stuttgart, Germany. The primary purpose of the trip was to celebrate the 25th anniversary … Read More

Friends of the Arboretum August Newsletter

Dear Friends, This time of year is a busy one at our Arboretum. We seem to have so many wonderful events that take place later in the year after the summer blooms begin to give way to the fall colors. This year is no different. On August 1, you received an email to let you … Read More

Friends of the Arboretum July Newsletter

Dear Friends, We are thrilled to share some exciting news about our ongoing commitment to making the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens a welcoming place for all. Over the past few years, the FOTA Advisory Board has been dedicated to an initiative called “Nature Encounter for All.” This project aims to enhance the experience … Read More

Friends of the Arboretum June Newsletter

  Dear Friends, Summer is in full swing – and so is your Arboretum. In previous months, we recapped all of the great things available to you and your family at the Arboretum. There is just so much to do and see all around us each and every day. From slow walks through the gardens, … Read More

Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Draft Horse Depot

May 2024 marked a significant milestone for Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead as we gathered to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the brand-new Draft Horse Depot. This momentous event represents the culmination of years of dedication, planning, and hard work. As the Friends of the Farmstead (FOF), the nonprofit fundraising group that made … Read More

Friends of the Arboretum May Newsletter

  Dear Friends, As previously mentioned, we have so many great programs and events taking place at the Arboretum over the summer months. Stems: A Garden Soirée, returning to the gardens on Saturday, June 22, is no exception. The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park is the host of Stems, which is the major … Read More

Friends of the Arboretum April Newsletter

  Dear Friends, As the Co-Chair of the Friends of the Arboretum Advisory Board, I’m often asked “What’s going on at the Arboretum?”, or “What can I do at the Arboretum?”  My answer is always “Plenty!”  As we move through the Spring season and into Summer, I thought I’d share some of my favorite things … Read More

Friends of the Arboretum March Newsletter

  Dear Friends, Winter is on the way out and spring is beginning! That’s great news for a lot of us who like to get outside and enjoy nature. Whether you are mowing, planting flowers, cleaning out last year’s garden beds or just enjoying a walk, spring is a great time of year – And … Read More