Volunteer Spotlight: Jenny at Apron Community Garden

When Jenny’s youngest started nursery in 2023, she decided it was the perfect time to give something back to a space that had already given her family so much.

“There was a lull in volunteers after the pandemic,” Jenny explains. “Having loved coming to the regular groups at the garden, I was keen to give something back and tackle some of the jobs that needed doing.”

What began as helping out a few hours a week at Apron Community Garden in Buckingham Park, Shoreham, soon grew into something much more. As Jenny got to know the team, she took on new responsibilities — running Nature School, managing a small group of regular volunteers, and even helping her children’s local school to set up visits.

“It’s had a big impact on their learning and given them so many opportunities to be scientists in the garden,” she says proudly.

Through volunteering, Jenny has deepened her understanding of Permaculture, plants, and the local environment, while also forming strong connections with others.

“It’s been so rewarding to get to know brilliant local women, share stories and knowledge, and build connections. I’ve also loved being able to help facilitate events for families with young children that are low or no cost.”

For Jenny, Apron is about more than gardening — it’s about community, connection, and creating a welcoming space for families.

“We benefitted from so many free play groups before my eldest started school, and there’s nothing quite like that available now. Apron provides that space to make connections, introduce children to new experiences and the food we grow, or just have somewhere to be as a caregiver when you’ve all slept badly or you’re struggling with a grumpy toddler.”

From lending a hand in the garden to nurturing a growing community, Jenny’s story perfectly captures what volunteering at Apron is all about — learning, sharing, and growing together.

➡️ Find out more about Apron here and donate to their fund raiser here.