Published Thursday, August 28, 2025
Austin is seven years old and heading into second grade, but he is already taking action to support the future of Franklin Park Conservatory. During a recent visit to the Conservatory this summer with his grandparents, Austin was inspired to donate $1 from his $7 savings.
Austin and his older brother Carson, age 10, have been visiting and exploring every part of the Conservatory since they were in strollers. Over the years, their excitement for all-things nature has become a special connection they share with their grandparents, Mark and Brenda Layman. Mark and Brenda, who are longtime Conservatory members and supporters, help care for the boys during the summer. For years, they have brought the boys to Franklin Park Conservatory, and it has become a cherished and favorite summer activity for everyone.
Austin’s enthusiasm for the Conservatory is contagious. He especially loves the Pacific Island Water Garden and Desert Biomes, along with the various water features throughout the interior of the Conservatory. “How do they make such cool things here?” Austin often asks his grandparents. Austin’s love for nature has grown outside of his visits to the Conservatory. He is currently growing a moss garden and collects different varieties, including palm tree moss, and enjoys exploring different parks and the woods behind his grandparents’ house.
During a recent visit, Austin asked, “when are they going to build more biomes?!” And when Brenda and Mark explained to him the concept of the Conservatory’s North Star Master Plan, Austin jumped at the idea of donating some of his savings to help the “big plan.” Inspired by his love for the different biomes, he specifically wanted to donate to help build more (and had the idea of a new ocean biome!). That is when he made the decision to donate $1 of his entire $7 savings to help the Conservatory grow.
Austin’s generosity is a reminder that the magic of the Conservatory reaches across generations, and that there is a special meaning behind every gift to the Conservatory.
At the end of their visit, when thanked for his generous donation, Austin frankly said “Maybe one day I can give you $2!”
Inspired by Austin’s generosity? Give here to help us inspire a lifelong curiosity for nature!