Suntory Flowers treats Girls Inc. to a day at the Wisconsin State Fair

Just before kids returned to school, Suntory Flowers treated the Southeast Wisconsin Chapter of Girls Inc. to a day of fun and education at the Wisconsin State Fair.

Their host was nationally syndicated garden expert Melinda Myers, who leads Master Gardeners in planting the fairgrounds at We Energies Energy Park. During the 10-day run of the state fair, Myers is a popular speaker who provides gardening advice.

Suntory Flowers supplied Soiree Kawaii catharanthus plants for this year’s garden in shades of red, white, blue and coral. These mini vincas were chosen for their outstanding summer performance and because they support Girls Inc. — a national nonprofit organization that inspires girls to be strong, smart and bold.

In addition to making a financial contribution to the national organization, Suntory Flowers engages local chapters directly.

“It’s always a great day when we can share our passion and horticulture knowledge with others,” Myers said. “Thanks to Suntory’s sponsorship, two groups of Girls Inc. teens were able to see the handiwork of many horticulture professionals who helped create the Energy Park Gardens and visit other exhibits throughout the park. Sharing what we do is one way we can help inspire others to plant and tend gardens and landscapes now and in the future.”

For many of the girls, it was their first time at the state fair. The experience reinforced the STEM programs they were already doing and took their knowledge to the next level.

One girl said, “This summer, we learned about the water cycle, watersheds and how people can impact our environment. Seeing all the plants at the state fair helped connect what we learned to the real world.”

Another said, “My favorite part was seeing the flowers, because we’ve learned how water, people and the environment all affect how things grow.”

Gail Pabst, Suntory Flowers’ digital media specialist, joined the girls for the outing.

"Watching these young women explore the garden and talk with Melinda Myers was wonderful,” she said. “Their excitement to learn about plants is exactly why we do what we do. At Suntory Flowers, we are proud to support opportunities that inspire the next generation of gardeners and leaders."

Each Soiree Kawaii plant sold supports Girls Inc. and its programs that empower young women through mentorship, STEM education and leadership development.

The collective total raised is more than $108,000 to date.