Today we’d like to introduce you to Ephraim Badea.
Hi Ephraim, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a long time friend of Dr. John Rossi who opened his private garden to the public as a non profit in October of 2023. It is quite a gem in the fact that it represents the tropics in north east Florida by its over five hundred species of palm trees from all over the world; there are some that are not in the wild anymore as well. The garden also has a nature preserve which is uncommon of most botanical gardens in the country. I came on board as a volunteer two years ago and recently became a board member. As a volunteer I help with finding ways to raise money, plan events and as a board member help to secure the future of the gardens existence. You can find me in the nature preserve enjoying its tranquility.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As with any non profit the road to success is always a tough one especially in today’s economy. The major struggle is getting the exposure needed to bring in the public along with finding people and companies to help us grow financially through giving. The biggest hurdle we have now is planning and developing a welcome center on our recently donated land to properly accommodate the public and offer a grandeur experience. Another important challenge is finding volunteers to give of there time and focus on our mission of educating the public. This education is to provide the knowledge of the importance of using native plants in there landscapes and conserving water.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am retired from the retail business and currently own and operate a tour business in St Augustine. My retail experience benefits the gardens admissions and sales end of the non profit business. I am the photographer for the garden and do videos as well for educational purposes and they are promoted on our social media platforms. Although not a Botanist, I have always had a love for plants especially Orchids and most proud of a project I have been working on over the last two years for the garden; shhh can’t say what it is yet. I couldn’t say what sets me apart from the others. But what I can say, the others are who I learn from while working with them. We have a great staff of knowledgeable volunteers from master gardeners to retired Smithsonian botanists and park rangers.
How do you define success?
Success in our business is reaching the goals we set together as a team. Overcoming the obstacles together and respecting every ones opinions to reach the desired goals that are set. The success comes from this in that we can all receive personal fulfillment and happiness of our hard work. Our destination will never be final as we work to protect the future of our environment through conservation, education, preservation and research for those who will follow in our footsteps for generations to come. That is success.
Pricing:
- Seniors 65+ $10.00
- Children 8-17yrs old $8.00
- Adults $15.00
- Children under 8 FREE
- Members FREE
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Stjohnsbotanicalgarden.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sjbgnp/
