The Gift of Time: Volunteerism as Philanthropy

Strolling through the beautiful grounds of Tohono Chul, it’s obvious that it takes a large group to maintain this oasis in the city. Meeting the mission of encouraging reverence for the cultural and natural ecology of the Sonoran Desert region and inspiring responsible stewardship so that future generations may thrive couldn’t be done without the many volunteers who contribute their time and talent each day.

If you have a chance to enjoy a tour of the grounds, you’ve probably experienced the enthusiasm of a Docent sharing stories and their passion for the desert. Other days, you might pass a group of volunteers helping behind the scenes: feeding the tortoises, keeping the man-made stream clean in the Children’s Garden, setting up for an event, or roaming and chatting with visitors.

A recent celebration of Tohono Chul’s volunteers honored the far-reaching impact of their contributions over the past year. Assistant Manager of Interpretive Programs Lia Clark acknowledged their dedication: “(Volunteers) are part of a global community of millions of people who believe that showing up matters — that time given in service of something greater than oneself is one of the most powerful acts a human being can offer.” And show up they did. In 2025, volunteers generously contributed more than 11,000 hours of service (the equivalent of 5.3 full-time employees), while one individual surpassed an impressive 10,000 lifetime volunteer hours.

Tohono Chul’s volunteers have also gone beyond donating their time. When asked to contribute to special projects that support the mission of the Garden, they answered the call. From the construction of the Pavilion ($20,000 given) and the restoration of the painting Arizona Dawn ($11,120), to the fundraisers for the Adaptive Arboretum Garden ($5,180), and the Children’s Garden ($14,600), their influence has been felt throughout.

Our volunteers give generously in many ways. In addition to donating their time at special events, many also support the park by buying tickets and attending the events as guests. Volunteers receive free membership, and some choose to donate that value back as an added contribution. They also serve as the garden’s eyes and ears, helping improve the guest experience by noticing visitors’ needs and sharing feedback.

One volunteer who is often seen around Tohono Chul is Docent Karen Endorf. After completing the Docent program in 2014, Karen got involved in many aspects of the gardens. Whether she is ensuring that the tortoises are fed, knee-deep in water, cleaning the Children’s Garden stream, or collaborating on developing school tours, Karen is happy to be involved in a place that fosters creativity and a sense of wonder about the Sonoran Desert.

Karen brought a background in Chemical Engineering, including project development and business management, and her substitute teaching after retirement offered a wide range of experience for her volunteer role. Ready for another challenge, she thought that the docent program would “satisfy (her) need for continuous learning and community involvement.”

Tohono Chul’s focus on environmental conservation and cultural heritage resonates with Karen, but what she values most is working in children’s programs that teach younger generations about the ecology of the Sonoran Desert and inspire responsible stewardship. Her first visit to the Haunted Bookstore with her children many years ago helped spark that connection.

The beauty of the desert also influences Karen’s creativity. She creates picture quilts, watercolors, and knitted beanies, all inspired by the colors of the Sonoran Desert and Tohono Chul. She also shares her love of books with her grandchildren, who know that “books are delicious”.

Karen encourages others to pursue volunteer opportunities that align with their interests while staying open to new experiences. Her advice reflects the many ways volunteers support the gardens. As she notes, she is involved in a wide range of activities and is still eager to learn more—perhaps even the Latin names of the plants.

Lia Clark captured the significance of volunteering at Tohono Chul this way: “What you do here at Tohono Chul echoes far beyond these 49 acres. It echoes into the lives of every guest who has walked these paths and left changed. It echoes into the community that depends on this place to exist. And it echoes into the generations who will inherit what you have helped protect.”