April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time whenorganizations across the country pause to recognize the people who move missions forward—not for recognition, but because they care. And here in Balboa Park, we couldn’t think of a better way to honor that spirit than gathering on April 3rd for our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.

Held in the grand ballroom of the Balboa Park Club, the evening was filled with laughter, gratitude, and a shared sense of purpose. The theme, “Thrive in 2025,” reflected not just our vision for the future—it celebrated the heart and hands making that future possible.

As Katy shared that night:

“This night is all about you. Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”

And wow, have you voted with your whole heart. In the past year, Forever Balboa Park volunteers donated over 30,000 hours, contributing more than $1.2 million in value to the park. That’s triple the impact since 2020—and it shows.

Whether guiding guests, pruning roses, planting trees, or welcoming visitors with a smile, you embody what makes this place special. You help Balboa Park thrive—and you do it with grace, generosity, and grit.

This month, we celebrate you. Not just for what you do—but for who you are. You are community-builders. Garden-stewards. History-preservers. Joy-bringers. You are Forever Balboa Park.

To our incredible volunteer team, to the staff who support them, and to every person who chooses to give their time and heart—thank you. We are blooming because of you.

Let’s keep the momentum blooming. Join our volunteer family or support the work they make possible.

Images from our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner