Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum has revitalized its bench program and is now offering an opportunity for donors to select either a beautiful hand-hewn bench by artist David Robinson or a contemporary teak bench, either one to be dedicated with a commemorative plaque.

Laurelwood Arboretum is a walker’s paradise, with its winding paths and beautiful scenery. It is also a wonderful place to sit and contemplate the vistas or just relax for a while. There are a few benches in the arboretum, but visitors have said there aren’t enough.

Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum has identified 11 spots in the arboretum where a bench would be a welcome addition. The style and size of bench has been chosen to fit each location. The benches near the entrance to the Knippenberg Center will be contemporary in style to match the look of the center. The rest of the benches will be rustic, in keeping with the wooded surroundings.

There are many reasons to donate a bench—to celebrate a milestone in life or to honor or memorialize a loved one, to name just two. Donations will support Friends of Laurelwood in its mission: to preserve Laurelwood Arboretum as an oasis for the enjoyment of nature and to provide opportunities for environmental awareness through educational programs, community involvement and outreach activities.

Donations to our Donate-a-Bench program are deductible for income tax purposes to the extent allowed by law. Donations may be made in cash or securities.

To learn more about the bench donation program, please send an email to info@laurelwoodarboretum.org or call 973-831-5675.