Something for all Generations at AARP’s Grandparents Celebration at Norfolk Botanical Gardens

Face painters decorating toddlers’ cheeks mingled with elder care counselors at AARP Virginia’s recent Grandparents Day at Norfolk Botanical Gardens. A crowd of over 200 patrons, ranging in age from stroller babies to grandparents, enjoyed a free day wandering through the historic park while gleaning pertinent information from vendors on topics including Medicaid regulations and support services available through local human resources.

One of those vendors, the Norfolk Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, has been collaborating with AARP the past three years to help bring this popular event to fruition. Krystal Blue-Brown, the chapter president, said her sorority is passionate about the annual opportunity.

Caroline Tetschner

“We have many mature members in our local club, so this is a great time to recognize them while connecting with the local community and, of course, seeing all of the beautiful flora and fauna on these grounds,” she said.

Another vendor was Norfolk’s Adult Protective Services. Family services worker Ana Vincent said AARP includes their target audience of mature citizens but emphasized that her group supports local residents of all ages. She explained that they can assist the children of older individuals who may be seeking help navigating assisted living arrangements or adult foster care.

Caroline Tetschner

“This collaboration just made sense for us and our mission of helping the local community,” Vincent said.

The event included a presentation by Norfolk Botanical Gardens historian Amy Johnson, who told of the storied and segregated past of the 175-acre park. Johnson explained that in 1938, when ground broke on what she called a “swampy mess,” about 200 Black women and roughly 20 Black men worked long and laborious hours through hot summers and cold winters to bring the botanical gardens to life. They worked the ground by hand she explained, “wheelbarrow by wheelbarrow," hauling in dirt to build a levy by the lake, planting 4,000 azaleas and 2,000 rhododendrons. Ironically, when the work was completed and the gardens opened to the public in 1942, those same Black workers were not allowed in as visitors because of segregation. Johnson, who is also a Delta Sigma alumni, said that’s why she likes to volunteer at the Gardens.

“It’s so important that we fully understand the true and inclusive history of this beautiful place that today is enjoyed by everyone,” Johnson said.

Long-time AARP members and married couple Steve and Pat Robinson of Chesapeake came out to, “see and learn,” as Steve explained. Walking around with a professional camera slung at his side, Steve said, “I get to practice my photography hobby on these beautiful flowers and plants, while learning about services available to me, my wife and family.” Pat added that, as AARP members, they fully exploit the numerous benefits afforded to them especially, she said, “the magazine and the various travel discounts. Those have saved us probably thousands of dollars over the years.”

To learn more about AARP Virginia events in your community, visit aarp.org/local.