As of May 1, The Plant Exchange is closed. The Plant Exchange team would like to give a HUGE thank you to everyone who helped us close and supported us at our sales events and programs, especially our amazing volunteers. It was a big project, and we could not have done it without you.
We've gotten lots of questions during this process and want to answer a few of them.
Why did The Plant Exchange close? Odette, our Founder and Director, is retiring after 15 years of service. You can read the formal announcement here. Given the operational logistics of the organization in its large facility, the best option was to fully close the Golf Links Road location.
What happens to The Plant Exchange now that you have moved from the warehouse? Let's Keep Planting! Do you know of a community group or nonprofit looking to expand their programs? Or maybe a social enterprise or company looking to add a nonprofit arm? We're looking for creative ways to keep The Plant Exchange concept going and welcome your ideas and referrals.
Why did it Odette retire? Is she ill? No! She’s just ready to retire, relax, travel, and enjoy time with her community.
Where can I donate things? -For plants: o Use local platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Next Door, including planting or ‘free/swap’ groups on each one. o Start a plant exchange in your neighborhood! o Donate to Free Oakland UP -For gardening tools/supplies/pots, etc. and homewares, contact The White Elephant Sale -For craft and art related supplies, contact East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse
The Plant Exchange is a nonprofit environmental organization that has served Oakland and the Bay Area for over 15 years. Our mission is to promote sustainable gardening practices, reduce landfill waste, educate people about environmental justice, and bring our community together over a common love of gardening. We seek to unite people of all ages and backgrounds and promote the personal health and community benefits that gardening provides.
