Arb Access

To partner with local county service providers to grant free membership/access to underserved communities through already established government eligibility channels.

• To provide free Duo+2 memberships to those who may otherwise not be able to afford to visit the Arboretum.
• To partner with local counties to use current government set income thresholds to determine program eligibility.
• To provide outreach to those in the program through partners such as nature-based therapeutics, Extension, etc.
• To provide information about transportation opportunities and possible partnerships with SW Transit, SmartLink, etc.

Each county will receive printed applications with a specific code. Number of applications will be based on the current number of clients served. Applications will be the only way clients will be able to be granted memberships. They can be mailed in (preferred) or dropped off at the Arboretum. Note: Membership/Arboretum staff will not be able to renew memberships over the phone, online or onsite without a new printed application with a code. The Arboretum acknowledges the need for the Arb Access program but relies on membership revenue to operate. We do understand that a client's financial situation may change. If they are no longer eligible for county services, they won’t be eligible for the complimentary membership.

Return envelopes will be provided. The client or organization will need to provide postage. When the application is returned to the Arboretum, the client will be mailed new membership cards.

When the membership is up for renewal, the member will be directed to their county worker to renew through the same channels as the original process utilizing the printed coded application.

Case managers, public health nurses and social workers should work with each applicant to fill out the form. The available level for each client is a Duo+2 (entry for 4) household membership. Children under 15 are always admitted for free.

The Arboretum works with each county to provide quarterly reports in order to determine usage, access and program validity. No personal information is divulged during this process.