Greater Newark Conservancy - Campaign Accomplishments To Date

Meeting The Challenge - Campaign Accomplishments To Date:

When the seed for this innovative project first germinated, the Trustees conducted a feasibility study and quickly concluded that the project had tremendous merit. With bold voluntary leadership, an ambitious Capital Campaign was launched. Lead by Chairs, Judith Shipley and Marilyn Pfaltz, respected leaders throughout the North Jersey community, the Center is fast becoming a reality.

In anticipation of the Center's opening, a committee of highly respected business leaders is working diligently on the development of an operating plan for the Center to ensure that the Conservancy has the financing and the clientele necessary to grow over the long run. This plan will include recommendations for increased staff as well as revenue generating programs and services.

The goal is $5.9 million, $3 million of which has already been secured. Leaders continue to step forward. Major contributions have been made by the City of Newark, the State of New Jersey, private foundations, corporations and individuals . . . all people able to visualize a better future and wanting to make it happen. As of year-end 2000 about 50% of our goal has been secured.

With the funds raised to date, the Conservancy has stabilized the building and historic preservation. The roof has been repaired and the interior demolition and removal of debris is finished. Windows have been replaced including the repair of cornices and repointing and cleaning of the brick and masonry has been completed.

The next phase, at a cost of $2.9 million, will complete the final construction of the interior spaces, including an addition to the building, the green house and a s? plus complete construction of the 1.5 surrounding acreage, known as the Outdoor Learning Center. By the late fall, the new Center will be open. $2.9 million is needed to complete this unique program.