The Friends of Rye Nature Center (FRNC) raised $115,000 at its annual Nature Access Fund Benefit last Thursday. The funds will be used to provide equitable access to nature programming.
The annual benefit, a dinner at Rafele Rye, was attended by 70 FRNC donors on Thursday, May 16, 2024. The Nature Access Fund was created out of FRNC’s “belief that everyone, regardless of background or ability, should experience the healing, inspiring, and unifying effects of nature.”
FRNC creates partnerships with local schools and nonprofit organizations to ensure that underserved populations can connect with nature. Donor-funded NAF programs include:
- Providing summer camp for Inner-City Scholarship Fund students.
- Hosting empowering workshops for YWCA residents, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities that foster a sense of purpose and belonging.
- Educating children from underserved communities in Mamaroneck, Port Chester, and Mount Vernon with natural science lessons.
- Bringing nature directly to communities through NatureStation a mobile classroom that has hands-on conservation exhibits and lessons.
- Nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards and leaders through robust financial aid programs.
