In recognition of Volunteer Appreciation Week, I wanted to share highlights of the incredible work and impact of our Cobb Master Gardener Extension Volunteers. Their dedication continues to strengthen every aspect of our program and expand our reach across the community. They are leaders, educators, and the true heart of the difference volunteerism makes.
Howard Fry set a remarkable example during his training year in 2025 by contributing over 400 hours at the office help desk. This year, he has continued that commitment by working the first help desk shift alongside each of our 33 new interns, helping ensure every new volunteer feels welcomed and supported from day one.
Kathy Bergwall brings energy and enthusiasm to everything she does. After a recent Girl Scout badge workshop she organized, another volunteer was overheard saying they would work any event Kathy organizes, which speaks volumes about her ability to engage others and create meaningful experiences.
Joanne Newman continues to pour her heart and soul into Cobb Master Gardeners and exemplifies what Extension service is all about. She is also a wonderful cook, and anything she volunteers for is known for having delicious food and warm hospitality that brings people together.
Helen Diehl has been leading our Gardeners Night Out program for years and continues to make a significant impact. This year alone, she helped deliver educational programming at 13 libraries, reaching more than 500 community members.
Tom D’Anna is a consistent and dedicated presence in our demonstration gardens, working across three sites, including the Reconnecting Our Roots Community Garden in Marietta. His hands-on commitment keeps these educational spaces thriving.
Deb Buis is leading our Plant Sale this year. The Plant Sale is a major undertaking, with more than 4,000 visitors last year, and it continues to grow as we partner with the Cobb Parks Arts Festival. Deb has gracefully navigated these new challenges with strong leadership, helping ensure another successful event that will raise funds to support our educational programming. This year’s sale was a record-breaker with over $27,000 raised and more than 7,500 visitors were welcomed. It was an incredible reflection of the hard work and dedication of our Master Gardeners.
Gayle Bender serves as chair of the Wellness Garden at the Cobb County Farm Bureau, where she leads a dedicated team growing fresh produce for local food banks. Under her leadership, the garden not only feeds the community and teaches healthy cooking, but also grows gardeners, with many new recruits joining our program through their experience in the Wellness Garden.
Cobb Master Gardeners maintain and educate the public through 15 physical projects, including demonstration gardens, community gardens, and historic gardens. Volunteers also contribute their expertise and labor to Habitat for Humanity projects and have donated approximately 3,000 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks last year.
In addition to these efforts, Cobb Master Gardeners awarded over $10,000 in scholarships to students studying agriculture across the state, investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Collectively, our volunteers continue to make a tremendous difference in Cobb County through education, service, and community engagement. We are deeply grateful for all they do.
-Written by Niki Buchanan, UGA Extension, Cobb County
