Empowering People With Disabilities Through Nature

MEET THE PEOPLE WHO BENEFIT FROM OUR PROGRAMS:

Meet the folks from Community Based Services, (providing opportunities for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities). Here they are with our John Jay High School Senior Interns doing a work program on one of our preserves, building confidence while reaping the benefits of being in nature.

Meet Joanne and Margaret from Westchester Jewish Community Services Sunshine Social Club  (for individuals disabled by mental illness). Here they are at Teatown Reservation with (staff) naturalist Chris Evers gaining knowledge of where and how to go to a nature preserve to enjoy nature’s benefits.

And, meet this lovely young lady from The Community Center of Northern Westchester, (serving neighbors and families of limited means), enjoying a walk in the woods with (staff) naturalist Jim Nordgren. The many families who came on this outdoor program were surprised to learn that our parks and preserves are mostly free and open to the public. 

These Access Nature participants have challenges which make it difficult for them to experience a natural setting. Our programs help them overcome anxiety and lack of information, building  confidence, knowledge, and self sufficiency... giving them a lifetime tool to reduce stress and depression while increasing well being through nature. 

2019: Doubled our programs to serve 225 underserved and disabled persons.

You helped make this happen! Please give generously so we can continue to sustain and grow our programs in 2020.