Since 1988, the Friends have been dedicated to the promotion, improvement and preservation of Fellows Riverside Gardens, a free public garden, through advocacy and fundraising. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, the Friends are independent of the Gardens and Mill Creek MetroParks, yet work in steady collaboration with them to sponsor events, programs, and to fund large-scale garden projects. The contributions of time and energy on committees and projects are an integral part of Friends giving.