QUAIL BOTANICAL FOUNDATION has always been a source of pride within the community. That was true in 1943 when Charles and Ruth Baird Larabee began to create their private ranch as a haven for cork oaks, palms, cycads, aloes, cacti and hibiscus. It is true today when the organization has become a recognized leader in education, conservation and providing an urban retreat.

The Foundation has a commitment to excellence, sustained by the unfailing support of those who not only share the commitment, but contribute generously of their funds and energies as well. This tradition of support is being continued through an organization call the Larabee Society.

THE LARABEE SOCIETY is an exceptional group of men and women who recognize the demands of success. Their example lends both merit and impetus to the Foundation's effort. It is they who provide invaluable leadership in realizing many of the Gardens' most important goals.

Quail Botanical Gardens began in 1943 when Charles and Ruth Larabee landscaped their home with exotic plants collected from their world-wide travels. But they saw their grounds as more than a 26-acre private garden.

The Larabees saw it as a unique and excellent facility for education. The mission of Quail Botanical Gardens was cast when, as scout leaders, the Larabees dedicated themselves to educating the local youth in the inherent value of plant life. The community saw the benefit and built a scout hut.

Ruth Baird Larabee obviously recognized the value of her garden when she donated it to the County of San Diego so the general public too might learn from and enjoy this plant and wildlife sanctuary.

Community support for the Gardens heightened in 1961 when the Quail Botanical Gardens Foundation was formed to preserve this wealth of rare, exotic, and endangered plant species. As the visitors increased, so did the need for additional support. In 1981 another group of dedicated volunteers formed the Docent Society to assist with horticultural and botanical training, tours, educational programs and garden maintenance.

When all tax-funded operations ceased in 1993, it was, again, the dedication of the community supporters who made vital contributions to the preservation and growth of Quail. The Quail Botanical Gardens Foundation undertook the important task of operational management to ensure its success.

DEDICATION IS OUR KEY TO SUCCESS

Quail Botanical Gardens is a private non-profit corporation. Today the Gardens are funded by more than two thousand foundation members; private and corporate donations; and public programs and special events for a growing annual attendance of over 100,000 visitors from around the world.

To assure the Gardens' invaluable presence, and to promote its growth, the staff, with its 150 dedicated docents and volunteers, work diligently and tirelessly to improve the existing grounds and to expand its exhibits. To remain one of the outstanding institutions of its kind in the world and to meet the needs of a growing population, the Foundation must continually expand and revitalize its programs and facilities.

Quail Botanical Gardens is sustained by the continuing, unfailing support of those who recognize the importance of its mission and who appreciate the pure beauty of the Gardens.

The Quail Botanical Gardens Foundation invites you to take an active role in our plans for the future. Through your membership at the various levels in the Larabee Society, you will provide the leadership support vital to Quail's growth and revitalization.

CONTRIBUTIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE TO THE FULL EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. IRS NUMBER 95-6120581.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL (760) 436-3036, ext 206 OR