We are volunteering at the National AIDS Memorial Grove for their monthly community workday on September 15. The Grove people are trying to arrange a special project for us – resurfacing the steps (Moonwalk Way) that lead from the street level down to Crossroads Circle. So far, it is unclear whether the stone and gravel company will be able to deliver the donated materials in time. If not, we will perform general maintenance needed in the Grove which, we are told, likely involves a lot of i...
We are volunteering at the National AIDS Memorial Grove for their monthly community workday on September 15. The Grove people are trying to arrange a special project for us – resurfacing the steps (Moonwalk Way) that lead from the street level down to Crossroads Circle. So far, it is unclear whether the stone and gravel company will be able to deliver the donated materials in time. If not, we will perform general maintenance needed in the Grove which, we are told, likely involves a lot of ivy removal. Weeding, clearing debris and other related chores also will be available.
We are asked to arrive at 8:30 at the Main Entrance on Bowling Green Drive to register and to sign a release form. Coffee and bagels will be provided. Work begins promptly at 9:00, starting with an orientation and description and delegation of project assignments. If you wish to stay, at 12:00 we will break for a circle ceremony where announcements are read, the group observes a moment of silence for those who have been lost, and the sponsors of the day are acknowledged. Lunch will be provided at 12:30.
Gloves and tools are provided, although many volunteers bring their own gloves. It is suggested that we wear sturdy work clothes and shoes and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat or cap. We are told that no sandals or open toe shoes will be permitted.
Directions:
Located in the eastern end of Golden Gate Park, the Grove’s main entrance is at the intersection of Bowling Green and Middle Drive East, across the street from the tennis courts. The Grove is easily accessible by car and public transportation. The link provides additional transportation and directional information: http://www.aidsmemorial.org/getting-to-the-grove
About the Grove (from the Grove’s website):
“The National AIDS Memorial Grove, located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, is a dedicated space in the national landscape where millions of Americans touched directly or indirectly by AIDS can gather to heal, hope, and remember. For all the promising prospects on the horizon, AIDS continues to invade our lives, violate our past, and rob us of our comfortable assumptions about the future. The sacred ground of this living memorial honors all who have confronted this tragic pandemic both those who have died and those who have shared their struggle, kept the vigils, and supported each other during the final hours. The National AIDS Memorial Grove signifies that the global tragedy of AIDS will never be forgotten. The National AIDS Memorial Grove is a living tribute to all whose lives have been touched by AIDS. Our mission is to provide a healing sanctuary, to increase awareness of this national treasure, and to promote learning and understanding of the human tragedy of the AIDS pandemic.” For more information: http://www.aidsmemorial.org/
Join us and help us maintain the Grove!