March 1 is Meteorological Spring
Our Thursday morning volunteer Garden Crew is uncovering emerging snowdrop and daffodil bulbs as we clear the winter away, and gather materials for our Welcome Spring Bonfire, happening March 16.
March 9: Make a Sun Hat
Our Memory Cafe is a monthly friendly social gathering at the Topsfield Library 1st Floor Meeting Room, 2nd Saturdays, 10am – 12pm (November – March). Pop in with your loved one living with memory changes for a cup of coffee and some friendly conversations. Next Memory Cafe is Saturday, March 9, 10am – 12pm.
March 16: Welcome Spring Bonfire Party!
March 16, 1-4pm; Celebrate Spring’s Arrival. (1st Day of Spring is March 19!)
All ages & abilities! Enthusiastic party people welcome! Come dressed for the outdoor party. After parking onsite, wander along wheelchair-accessible trails (boardwalk, brick or compacted stone), into the woods, towards the fresh water pond (less than 0.2 mi, 0 elevation gain)… Gather ’round the bonfire to meet new and old friends, enjoy light refreshments, music and dancing! Trail is friendly for baby strollers, wheelchairs, and walkers. An accessible indoor cottage provides a warming area and indoor bathroom. Our Bonfire Party will happen light rain, snow, or shine! Small group is limited to 10 cars. We include anyone living with Aging Joints/Injuries, Brian Injury, Down Syndrome, Neuro-Diversity/Autism, or Alzheimer’s/Dementia (early stage cognitive decline).
Party-goers must be able to:
– Feel socially at ease in a small group
– Display social friendliness, inclusion, & kindness
– A sense of humor is a plus!
– Anyone needing assistance must bring a care-partner
RSVP Required. Text 978-887-4202. Parking is Limited.
March 19 or March 21/28: ANNUAL Volunteer Orientation & Training
Once at the beginning of our Spring Season, we offer a comprehensive volunteer orientation & training for all seasonal volunteers helping with guest services in the garden on weekdays Tuesdays – Thursdays. Sessions average 3-4 hours, and include volunteer introductions, ice breaker activities, Rest-Stop-Ranch history lessons, volunteer expectations, and best practices. Anyone joining our seasonal team after these sessions will receive on-the-job orientation & training as leaders are available to mentor newcomers.
Consider Volunteering with Us!
Our volunteers range in age from 14 to 80+. Most are young adults fulfilling volunteer requirements for school, or retired adults appreciating a weekly social connection while helping actualize our mission and vision.
Help maintain our wheelchair-accessible gardens (once per week, Thursday, 9am – 12pm)
Work with a small group to clear trails, and care for plants.
Help offer therapeutic program hospitality (once per week, Tuesday or Thursday, 1pm – 4pm)
Work with a small team to support guests navigating the gardens.
Help manage papers and mailings in the office (once per week, Wednesdays, 1-4pm)
Work with our office staff to file papers, organize the library, or mail letters.
Help with outreach in the community (flexible schedule)
Work with our Outreach Coordinator to spread the word about Rest-Stop-Ranch services.
3 Easy Ways to Donate:
1. Online – Facebook.com/reststopranch; Venmo “Rest-Stop-Ranch”
2. Check – Make payable to “Rest-Stop-Ranch”; Mail to:
202 Haverhill Road, Topsfield, MA 01983
3. Cash – Locked Boxes Onsite
We are currently raising $7,000 to complete 2 projects:
1. Lily Pond Overlook Patio and Forest Flowers Trail
2. Raised Garden Beds in the Kitchen Garden
Thanks again to ALL who have financially contributed over the years to make our ADA Accessible Garden Trails (0.5 mile).
With Gratitude,
The Rest-Stop-Ranch Team ~ Building access for all, with fragrant flowers and fruits within reach.