Get Involved & Lend Your Hands

If the Walpole Garden has a soul, it is Bob Bonner. A board member of Friends of Terwilliger and the driving force behind this garden from its earliest days, Bob has transformed what was once a blackberry, invasive locust tree, and ivy-infested acre of utility right-of-way into one of Southwest Portland’s most beloved outdoor destinations.

Over the course of six-plus years, Bob has organized and guided the garden’s transformation: clearing invasives, designing walking trails, overseeing construction of the labyrinth with its spectacular valley views, establishing native plant collections, and recruiting countless volunteers — from Lewis & Clark College students to Scout troops to neighborhood neighbors — to bring the vision to life.

Bob is the person who uncovers a buried 1908 sidewalk and sees an opportunity. Who installs locust log seating and calls it furniture. Who organizes sunset labyrinth walks by candlelight with Native American flute music. The garden reflects his belief that public land should be beautiful, purposeful, and welcoming to everyone.

The Friends of Terwilliger put it simply: “He’s an inspiration to all of us. If you want to volunteer, the best place to start is right here with Bob.”