Friends of Rye Nature Center (FRNC)’s annual Nature Access Fund (NAF) benefit at Westchester Country Club on June 4, 2026 attracted over 100 guests and raised over $160,000. The funds will support programs and outreach services to provide nature experiences to people who otherwise would not have access.
FRNC’s Executive Director, Christine Siller, shared the history of the program, which began with efforts of Mary Julian and Martha Monseratte in 2008 to bring children to Rye Nature Center’s camp. FRNC’s Outreach Director Katie Jamer shared testimonials describing the impact that NAF programs and camps have on children who have little access to green space. The testimonials described how children respond to FRNC’s programs through partnerships with the Carver Center, Community Resource Center, and Inner-City Scholarship Fund.
“The joy and engagement these children experience through nature is something everyone deserves, and FRNC is determined to bring our programs to as many people as we can.” said Jamer.
Last year, FRNC provided almost $200,000 in free programming, including workshops, camps, scholarships, after-school programs, and Nature Station visits.
