About Roots & Branches

Our mission is to grow a more beautiful community today and plant seeds of pride and stewardship to improve the natural environment of West Bend tomorrow.

We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, operating solely for charitable and educational purposes with contributions of material, time, and monetary support from individuals, businesses, corporations, and foundations.

What We Do

We instill pride and commitment in all ages to continue the traditions of Roots and Branches through the following programs:

  • Educational seminars

  • Milwaukee Riverkeeper Spring Cleanup with Roots and Branches of our parks and green spaces

  • Arbor Day Program for West Bend School District area 4th graders with West Bend High School SEED (Saving Earth Every Day) Club

  • Adopt-a-plot gardens around West Bend (SEE BELOW FOR INFO THAT CAN GUIDE YOU TO ALL THE BEAUTIFUL GARDENS AROUND TOWN!)

  • Recognition and awards to private residents and businesses for beautifying their properties

  • Academic Scholarship

Take a stroll in downtown West Bend along Main Street! Visit the shops, grab a bite at a restaurant….and enjoy the 15 beautiful flower gardens! These gardens are directly in the ground and alongside the sidewalks. You will be amazed at the beauty!


If you haven’t driven west of 7th Avenue in West Bend along Oak Street, you’re missing out! Roots and Branches volunteers plant and maintain 3 incredible gardens on Oak Street. Be sure to stop by and visit!


Click on the photos above to see a hidden gem! Take a trek up to Barton along the Eisenbahn trail and visit our delightful Barton Garden! Maintained by a team of volunteers (always look for extra hands if you’re interested!) - this garden is packed full of gorgeous flowers. Make it a point to stop by located on Barton Ave.


Fundraisers

Roots and Branches is fiscally responsible by holding fundraisers each year so donations can go directly to programs:

  • Plant Sale in May

  • Garden Tour in July

  • Annual Campaign

GET INVOLVED

Contact us to learn more about the organization, the events and projects. Phone 262-335-5083 or e-mail: rootsandbranches@westbendwi.gov

2025 Board of Directors

President: Sharon Scott

Vice President: (vacant position)

Treasurer: Marian Roethke

Secretary: Donna Kogler

Director: Susan Steinhafel

Director: Karen Wysocky

Director: Leona Knobloch

Director: Kelly Breautigam

Director: Tammy Rohlinger

Director: Eve Haver

Director: Jack Freiheit

Staff Members

Director: Lisa Kitzke

Administrative Assistant: