Volunteer Spotlight: Kate Karakassis

While she has only been volunteering at Clermont since last spring, Kate has been visiting Clermont for the past 20 years and has become quite fond of the site and our mission. When she saw in our e-newsletter that we were looking for ornamental garden volunteers, she jumped at the chance to give back in a unique way.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at Clermont?

What’s not to love? You get to be outdoors and in the gardens. There is an immediate satisfaction to seeing all your hard work pay off. We are actively making the grounds more beautiful. There is a sense of completion when you see the noticeable difference after weeks of weeding and pruning. There is also a social element that comes with volunteering, and I have had the privilege of working with a fascinating group of volunteers and state staff. For me, volunteering is not about specific moments, as our work tends to be the same every time (weeding, pruning, etc.); volunteering is about the satisfaction I get upon completing my tasks.

How do you balance your volunteer work with other aspects of your life?

I am retired, so volunteering has become a large aspect of my life. In conjunction with volunteering on some of Red Hook’s town committees, Clermont is the primary place that I volunteer. It is something that I am actively looking forward to on a weekly basis.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering at Clermont?

There are so many opportunities to get involved at Clermont. Try to find an opportunity that is an extension of what you already like to do. For me, I love gardening, so it was a natural fit to volunteer in the gardens. If you like organizing or typing, perhaps seek out a clerical role. If you love history, perhaps there is a research spot available. You never know unless you reach out.

What are your hopes for the future of the gardens and grounds?

It is my hope to see the gardens fully restored to their former glory. I know that it is the goal of the state’s horticulturist, Leslie, to see the gardens restored to their historical roots so to speak, using historical documents as her guide. For me, I would love to see the Lilac Walk undergo some TLC. While it is beautiful when in bloom, the path itself has become overgrown with invasive weeds and vines, and it takes away from its overall beauty. It’s the entryway to the mansion, and there is a small army of volunteers willing and ready to get their hands dirty!

Interested in volunteering at Clermont?  Here’s what you need to know.