Apr. 12, 2012

Original Art by Murray Hunter. Original stands 2 by 3 feet

It is said that the colour orange relates to 'gut reaction' or our gut instincts, as opposed to the physical reaction of red or the mental reaction of yellow. 

Orange offers emotional strength in difficult times. It helps us to bounce back from disappointments and despair, assisting in recovery from grief, and building a hopeful future.

It seems appropriate that orange is the theme colour Murray Hunter chooses at fundraising events benefiting the Julia Hunter Fund for Public Gardens.

Murray established the fund at London Community Foundation in 2005 when his 23 year old daughter Julia died in a car accident. Through the fund, Murray seeks to build and maintain gardens for public access and enjoyment.

“My earliest memories are of gardens. To me they represent a foothold. Peace. Solace. My daughter Julia shared this love of nature. This is a tribute to her life and a quiet gift to others so they too, may find comfort in nature.”

The Julia Hunter Fund for Public Gardens...

Funded a new garden at Banting House National Historic Site Garden. This garden grows each year and is a place for many community celebrations. 

Helped Cronyn Child Care Centre with the purchase and planting of a red maple tree for the kids outdoor play area. This tree is growing strong and tall, and will provide the children with shade and a connection to nature.

Continued to help The Anglican Garden Project purchase city allotment plots each year, for which to grow fresh produce for St. Paul's Cathedral's Daily Meal Program. This meal program feeds many poor people each day. Enough produce is grown that it can be prepared to use during winter months. 

Going forward, Murray hopes to establish the Julia Hunter Fund for Public Gardens as one that plays a catalytic role in projects it supports.

“All these ideas start with a seed - quite literally in some instances. The Fund especially welcomes proposals that can inspire others as pilot projects. Projects considered need to have a plan for strong design, on-going maintenance, include native plants or species, and learning opportunities. London Community Foundation is honoured to be able to provide the administration for this fund to benefit public gardens in Julia’s name and memory, for generations to come.

Make a donation to build beautiful and inspiring gardens today