A Legacy in Bloom
Early Visitors, Lifelong Donors
Ben and Scott’s Flowerland Legacy
Ben Nicholson and Scott Vorhees first visited the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens in 1988 and were immediately smitten by the beauty and serenity the Gardens provide. Twenty-two years later, they decided to leave a legacy gift in their trust. We are honored by the confidence they have in us and appreciate the meaningful support that planned gifts provide. Ben and Scott are early members of the Flowerland Society, which was formed in 2024 to appreciate and recognize bequests and our legacy donors.
Ben has given to the Gardens in more ways than we can count. After moving to Fort Bragg permanently in 1998, Ben wasted no time becoming a highly active MCBG volunteer. Ben did not limit himself to weeding and pruning; he also became a certified Master Gardener and served on the MCBG Board of Directors for eight years, including Vice President for several terms. He also served on a number of committees, ranging from Finance to Personnel. Ben and Scott were the hosts and
organizers of the two most successful Festival of Lights Galas ever. They have since moved to a beautiful ranch in Ohio, but their hearts are still with us, and ours with them.
Ben recalls that first visit to the Gardens: ” We fell in love with the Gardens right away. Through the years, we have enjoyed seeing it flourish to its current beauty, and we are pleased to support this treasure in perpetuity.”
* The stunning photo above was taken by Ben one lovely summer afternoon in the MCBG Dahlia Garden.
Roots of Generosity
If you are considering how a planned gift could be part of your estate or financial plans, we would be delighted to start a conversation. Explore the options available and discover how your legacy can help the Gardens thrive for generations to come. By including the Gardens in your plans, you are invited to join the Flowerland Legacy Society—a community dedicated to protecting the natural beauty of the Mendocino Coast and ensuring the Gardens continue to inspire.
Feel free to contact us to explore the options available and discover how your legacy can help the Gardens thrive for generations to come.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about ways to support the Gardens, call us at 707-964-4352 ext 113 or email administration@gardenbythesea.org.