In neighborhoods big and small, from a high-rise senior housing in San Francisco to demonstration gardens in the high desert. Yes, the gardens are beautiful. But the real growth? That’s happening between the people. UC Master Gardeners have built bridges between people and places, forged new partnerships, and deepened the roots of inclusion, belonging, and well-being across California.
This year, we’re proud to recognize a standout group of “Gardeners with Heart”—volunteers who exemplify what it means to show up for their community. Through education, collaboration, and imagination, they’ve expanded the reach of the UC Master Gardener Program, making it more accessible, more inclusive, and more connected to those it serves. Join us as we celebrate Linda, Dorothy, John, Bobbie, James, Denise, Winnie, Theresa, and Nicole—UC Master Gardeners who show us that gardening isn’t just about plants, it’s about people too.
James Bassett, Los Angeles County
In the heart of Los Angeles, James Bassett is connecting gardening to the classroom and beyond. A lecturer at UCLA’s Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, James weaves the UC Master Gardener Program into his work with students, many of whom are experiencing gardening for the first time. Through UCLA’s Healthy Campus Initiative Community Garden, he has brought UC Master Gardeners of Los Angeles County’s Grow LA Gardens project to students offering workshops on culturally significant crops and food systems at the Semel/HCI Community Garden. Additionally, his work on the county’s DEI team helped launch a cultural resource repository that shifted how volunteers approach outreach.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my work as a [UC] Master Gardener has been engaging with school gardens. These spaces provide an incredible opportunity to pass on a love for gardening to the next generation while introducing young people to fresh fruits and vegetables they may not have experienced before.”
Linda Carloni, Alameda County
In Alameda County, Linda Carloni is known for her adaptability and curiosity. She doesn’t shy away from complex topics. Instead, she studies them, translates them into plain language, and shares them generously. Her contributions to the “Seed to Harvest” education course are a testament to her approach: thoughtful, science-based, and deeply inclusive. Whether it’s at the Help Desk or writing curriculum, Linda is prepared, passionate, and committed to learning alongside others.
“Linda is a model of open-mindedness, always ready to learn something new—and teach it in a way everyone can understand.”
Dorothy Abeta, Contra Costa County
When new volunteers step into the UC Master Gardener Program in Contra Costa, Dorothy Abeta is often one of the first faces they meet—and one they won’t soon forget. As co-lead of the county’s new volunteer training program, she has donated nearly 2,000 hours since July 2024 and trained more than 50 new educators. Her lessons are invitations to believe in one’s own potential to teach and serve. Dorothy’s impact ripples far beyond the classroom, as every volunteer she’s mentored goes on to inspire others in their own communities.
“Dorothy’s passion for education and her ability to inspire has made a lasting impact not only on the volunteers she has trained, but also on the countless Contra Costa County residents who will benefit from their expertise”
John Fike, Contra Costa County
Alongside Dorothy, John Fike has brought his own spark to Contra Costa’s training program. With nearly 1,000 volunteer hours under his belt, John is known for his dynamic teaching style and deep-rooted enthusiasm for outreach. Whether he’s leading a hands-on soil workshop or chatting with attendees at a local event, John sees education as a way to build genuine connection. His presence has helped foster a learning environment where people feel not only informed—but empowered.
“John goes above and beyond to nurture trainees and inspire them to be gardening educators. John is a talented educator and collaborator.”
Bobbie Stryffeler, Inyo-Mono Counties
In Inyo-Mono County, Bobbie Stryffeler is showing that gardening can be a powerful tool for community development. As a longtime volunteer, Bobbie has worn many hats— volunteer president, helpline lead, and teaching workshops. Working alongside her County Director, Bobbie’s efforts helped secure a $133,000 Urban Greening Grant to expand the Bishop Community Garden, which doubled its capacity and transformed it into a hub for education, food access, and collaboration. Bobbie brings together groups from all corners of the community: the Bishop Paiute Tribe, Eastern Sierra Land Trust, city officials, and local nonprofits.
“Bobbie worked with United Methodist Social Services to provide fresh produce from the garden to those in need and helped coordinate an annual youth group volunteer event in the garden. She is so valued in our community!”
Denise Ronalter, Nevada County
In Nevada County, when something needs doing, chances are Denise Ronalter is already on it. A longtime volunteer and natural leader, Denise has played a pivotal role in bringing people into the UC Master Gardener Demonstration Garden to learn, connect, and feel inspired. Whether coordinating logistics for a large public event or ensuring that new signage and infrastructure are in place to improve the visitor experience, Denise brings equal parts vision and follow-through. Her leadership helped organize a community-wide celebration for the program’s 40th anniversary, welcoming more than 600 visitors for a day of workshops, garden tours, and children’s activities.
“Denise leads with humility, rolling up her sleeves for the small tasks that often go unseen, and lifting up others to take part in something bigger.”
Winnie Fong, San Mateo-San Francisco Counties
For residents at John F. Kennedy Towers, a 98-unit affordable housing senior community in San Francisco, Winnie Fong has turned a rooftop garden into a gathering place for seniors. A native Cantonese speaker, Winnie initiated a project that brings gardening education to residents in their own language, empowering them to grow food, care for plants, and bond over shared traditions.
Workshops at JFK Towers range from composting to houseplants, and Winnie is often facilitating conversations, encouraging participation, and translating complex concepts with warmth and clarity.Winnie’s communication skills and gardening knowledge have been essential to this project. Winnie has also been invaluable to the entire San Mateo-San Francisco program by translating instructional and promotional materials into Chinese.
“Winnie nurtured a vision that took 6 years to make a reality. “For me,” Maggie says, “the reward is in the community. It goes beyond the food that is produced. For me to see the clients connecting with each other and with us – exchanging ideas, laughing, and collaborating out in the garden – is very fun and personally rewarding.”
Theresa McCausland, Shasta County
Theresa McCausland joined the UC Master Gardener Program in 2024 and has already given multiple talks on container gardening, forged new partnerships, and brought more than 110 residents into contact with the program in her first year. Theresa has connected the program to the Far Northern Regional Center, an agency that serves people with developmental disabilities, in an effort to improve their access to fresh vegetables. She was also instrumental in developing a partnership with Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District. Theresa has a keen eye for partnerships that serve public health and access to fresh food. Her advocacy is already making a difference in Shasta County.
“In addition to being a prolific educator, Theresa is a great advocate for the UC Master Gardener Program. She has helped build new connections with community organizations.”
Nicole Vanole, Ventura County
Nicole Vanole is often described as the cornerstone of the UC Master Gardener of Ventura County’s program through her exceptional leadership and comprehensive understanding of horticultural education. Under Nicole's leadership, the Speakers' Bureau has evolved into an educational powerhouse, delivering nearly 90 meticulously crafted presentations to over 2,000 participants annually throughout Ventura County. Nicole is also skilled at building and maintaining crucial partnerships with key community stakeholders, including municipal water districts, library systems, city planners, and demonstration garden coordinators. Her networking abilities have significantly expanded our program's reach, connecting UC Master Gardeners with diverse audiences eager to learn about sustainable gardening practices. She’s a connector and a motivator, inspiring others to deliver with professionalism and heart. Whether troubleshooting irrigation issues or mentoring new speakers, Nicole makes everyone feel supported.
"Nicole is reliable, dedicated, knowledgeable, funny, and kind. Our program and community are better for having her on our team."
About National Volunteer Month and Gardeners with Heart
During National Volunteer Month (April 1 - 30), the UC Master Gardener Program celebrates its dedicated volunteers and their significant contributions to communities across California. Gardeners with Heart volunteers are nominated for their exceptional work in community outreach and communication efforts, highlighting their commitment to promoting gardening education and fostering community resilience. Join us in honoring their dedication and passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others. If you are interested in learning more about gardening in your community or getting involved, you can find your local program here.