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Cape Fear Botanical Garden launches public phase of $4.75 million “Always Growing” capital campaign

By Staff Report, posted Nov 4, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

Cape Fear Botanical Garden is celebrating an exciting milestone with the public launch of Always Growing, a $4.75 million capital campaign that will transform opportunities for environmental education, enhance the visitor experience, preserve iconic Garden features and strengthen the organization's future.

One of the campaign’s most important projects is the replacement of the original 1970s-era picnic shelter in Pope Park with a modern Environmental Education Pavilion and accessible restrooms. 

The new pavilion will provide an improved setting for school field trips, hands-on environmental education, family programming, and other activities that encourage people of all ages to explore nature. 

The campaign also includes important acoustical improvements to the Ralph and Linda Huff Orangery.

A sound study conducted in 2015 identified challenges associated with echo and reverberation within the space. Planned improvements will help create a more comfortable environment, allowing guests to better enjoy conversations, presentations, and special occasions. 

Additional campaign investments will support enhancements to the Garden's landscapes and renovations to two of its iconic features, the Wellons Arbor and Butler Gazebo. These improvements will help preserve the character and beauty of the Garden while enhancing the experience for future visitors. 

Beyond physical improvements, Always Growing recognizes that the Garden's long-term success depends on the people and resources that sustain its mission. 

The campaign includes support for growing the Garden's endowment held at Cumberland Community Foundation Inc. which will strengthen the organization's financial foundation. The fund supports the skilled, year-round work of horticulture, engaging educational programming, and provides meaningful visitor experiences. Together, these investments reflect a thoughtful approach to the Garden's future, balancing improvements to its facilities with the ongoing stewardship necessary to maintain an 80-acre botanical garden. 

The Garden has already secured 85% of its fundraising goal, representing approximately $4 million in commitments. The public phase invites the greater community to help bring this vision to completion and ensure the Garden continues to thrive for generations to come. 

Adding to the excitement of the public launch, three generous donors have pledged to match every dollar contributed to the Always Growing campaign between Nov. 4 and Dec. 31, 2026, up to a combined total of $500,000. Every eligible gift made during this period will be matched dollar for dollar. 

“Always Growing represents more than improvements to our facilities and landscapes. It is an investment in the future of Cape Fear Botanical Garden and the thousands of people who come here each year to learn, explore, celebrate and connect with nature,” said Chris Hoffman, CEO of Cape Fear Botanical Garden, in a press release. “The tremendous support we have already received demonstrates how deeply our community values the Garden. Now, we invite everyone to be part of this next chapter.”

For decades, Cape Fear Botanical Garden has served as a place where nature, education and community come together. Each year, thousands of visitors experience the Garden through educational programs, special events, family activities and opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the natural world. 

The Always Growing campaign builds upon that legacy. With 85% of the campaign goal already secured, every contribution brings the Garden closer to realizing its vision. 

“I am incredibly proud of and grateful for our donors. Their generosity has enriched our Garden and community, once again, so we can live, work and grow together,” said Cape Fear Botanical Garden Director of Philanthropy Shannon Bell in a press release.

To learn more about Always Growing or make a contribution, visit www.capefearbg.org.

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