Since its establishment in 2020, the Newburgh Sanctuary has grown into a vital community asset and a powerful model of public–community partnership with the City of Newburgh. What began as a vision to reclaim and care for land has become a thriving hub for ecological restoration, food access, youth leadership, and collective healing.

Through deep collaboration, volunteerism, and community-led stewardship, the Sanctuary—alongside many dedicated partners—has transformed a once-neglected space into a place of nourishment, learning, and connection.

A Legacy of Investment & Care

Over the past five years, more than $450,000 has been invested into strengthening programs, restoring the land, and hosting free public events that welcome the entire community. These resources have supported not only infrastructure and ecology, but also people—ensuring access, opportunity, and shared ownership of this sacred space.

Nourishing Community Wellness & Food Access

Food justice and wellness are central to the Sanctuary’s mission. Since 2020, we have distributed 1,250 free life-giving produce, herb, and flower bags, supporting food access and holistic well-being across Newburgh.

In partnership with the Greater Newburgh Parks Conservancy, we also planted a Community Food Forest, including 10 fruit trees and hazelnuts, creating long-term, sustainable food access for generations to come.

Investing in Youth Leadership & Storytelling

Youth development has been a cornerstone of the Sanctuary’s impact:

18 paid youth apprentices have gained hands-on experience in regenerative growing, environmental stewardship, and land care through the Orange County Youth Department.
9 Park Youth Media Storytellers have documented community-led conservation efforts, uplifted local voices, and organized educational screenings—ensuring that the story of the land is told by those rooted in it.

These programs empower young people with skills, purpose, and a deep relationship to place.

Community Events That Bring People Together

Over five years, the Sanctuary has hosted 40+ free public events, welcoming more than 1,000 participants of all ages. From workshops and skillshares to cultural celebrations, restoration cleanups, and educational gatherings, these events have strengthened community bonds and cultivated shared responsibility for the land.

Restoring the Land, Reviving the Ecosystem

Environmental restoration has been both hands-on and transformative:

3 tons of waste removed, helping revive Crystal Lake’s ecosystem
400+ native plants added, supporting pollinators, strengthening biodiversity, and restoring ecological resilience

Each cleanup, planting, and restoration effort reflects a commitment to healing the land as an extension of healing the community.

Spaces for Reflection, Healing & Connection

To support rest and reflection, the Sanctuary installed three resting benches and a Peace Pole, creating welcoming spaces for contemplation, gathering, and grounding. These elements remind us that care for the land also means care for the spirit.

Growing Stewardship & Strong Partnerships

At the heart of the Sanctuary is a growing base of volunteer land caretakers and cultural workers who show up consistently to tend, teach, and protect this shared space.

In partnership with the City of Newburgh, critical infrastructure upgrades were completed, including the installation of a new yard hydrant and water meter by the Water Department—ensuring sustainable site care and long-term viability.

Looking Ahead

Five years in, the Newburgh Sanctuary stands as proof of what is possible when community, city partners, youth, and volunteers come together with a shared vision. This is not just a place—it is a living example of collective care, environmental justice, and community-led transformation.

As we look ahead, we remain rooted in gratitude for everyone who has planted, cleaned, learned, taught, documented, and dreamed alongside us. The work continues—and the future is growing. 🌱

Celebrating 5 Years of Impact at the Newburgh Sanctuary