The Garden Guild at Reiman Gardens is a group of volunteers dedicated to the support and advancement of programming which will increase environmental literacy, expand current education offerings, and support conservation efforts in central Iowa. The Guild is dedicated to the support and advancement of Reiman Gardens as a premiere public garden in the region.

The Guild was established to build awareness in the community about Reiman Gardens programming, create opportunities for the community to raise funds to broaden the scope of our audiences, and ensure the continued accessibility of nature-based education to area youth.

This is a great way to network with others who are passionate about Reiman Gardens mission: to educate, enchant, and inspire an appreciation of plants, insects, and the beauty of the natural world. Members will work together for a common goal of supporting Reiman Gardens and increasing programming opportunities to reach even more people throughout the community.

Guild members will have opportunities to:

• Become a board officer - leadership, administration, and community building
• Join and work with others on a committee - Community & Education, Membership, Fundraising
• Event Planning and Sponsorships - plan exciting events to raise funds and welcome new community members to engage at Reiman Gardens

Is this the same as a Reiman Gardens membership?

No. You can purchase a membership to Reiman Gardens here. Members of the Guild are encouraged, but not required, to be paid members of Reiman Gardens. Membership in the Guild does not constitute a membership to Reiman Gardens.

Does it cost money to be in the Guild?

Yes. Guild members can select which level of membership they would like based on price. Membership dues are due annually by April 1. Dues can be paid to the Treasurer.

Can I cancel my membership and get a refund?

Memberships to the Garden Guild are considered donations and are non-refundable. We sincerely thank you for your support of Reiman Gardens.

REIMAN GARDENS GUILD - BYLAWS

Reiman Gardens Garden Guild Bylaws

Article I. NAME:  The name of the committee is the Reiman Gardens Garden Guild.

Article II. VISION:  To enhance the educational opportunities that support the Reiman Gardens mission:  To educate, enchant, and inspire an appreciation for plants, insects, and the beauty of the natural world. 

Article III. PURPOSE:  The Guild will:

• Philanthropically support the Reiman Gardens Education Department by soliciting and/or advising staff concerning donations, sponsorships, and grants that would support educational opportunities.
• To solicit, generate, vet, and recommend to Garden staff unique and valuable events and educational opportunities for members, visitors, the community, and the world.
• Broaden the awareness of Reiman Gardens educational opportunities.
• Assist in the planning and function of educational opportunities and events.
• Operate consistent with the Mission and Purpose of Reiman Gardens.

Article IV.  MEMBERS:  Members of Reiman Gardens interested in the purpose of the Guild and willing to assist in the advancement of Reiman Gardens educational programs must apply to be a member of the Guild, by invitation from any existing Garden Guild member. An application form will be used to vet future members based on experience, interest, and availability.

Article V. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:  The Guild will:

• Function like a Committee of the Whole and operate under informal rules, allowing for open and relaxed discussions, opportunity to speak freely without recognition, and reaching consensus rather than formal motions.
• Annually select:
  •  a chair to lead discussions, to facilitate consensus and recommendations
  •  a clerk to record attendance and Guild meeting summaries
• Seek input and advice from Reiman Gardens members and employees, the public, and outside organizations.
• Coordinate opportunities and events with Reiman Gardens staff.
• Serve as volunteers without compensation.  Expenses incurred in the function of the Guild, will be handled by staff.
• Submit summaries of Guild meetings to CyBox for posting on the RG Website.

Article VI – MEETINGS

Guild meetings shall be held at least eight (8) times during the year. A Reiman Gardens Staff/Management Guild Liaison will attend all Guild Board meetings or send a representative.

Article VII – AMENDMENTS

The Bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the Guild members present at any meeting of the Guild. Members shall be given a written or electronic notice of proposed Bylaw changes at least one week before they are voted upon.