$200K In Grants Awarded To Historic Summit Attraction

SUMMIT, NJ — The Reeves-Reed Arboretum received a major boost in the form of three grants totaling nearly $200,000.

The education center said the funds will go towards various operational needs, historic preservation efforts, and their environmental educational programming.

"These grants strengthen our ability to educate, preserve, and inspire - ensuring visitors of all ages continue to experience the benefits of nature, learning, and historic preservation," said Executive Director Jackie Kondel.

An operational grant of $175,000 was awarded to Reeves-Reed by The Stackhouse Foundation. This funding will go towards supporting and sustaining more than 400 educational programs annually.

The salaries for the Environmental Education team and other resources needed for these teachers to lead programs like homeschool scout sessions, adult education courses, school trips, summer camps, and more.

The Mary Reinhart Stackhouse Foundation supports environmental and conservation organizations in New Jersey. An education center at Reeves-Reed is dedicated in the late philanthropist's honor.

The Union Foundation also gave $10,500 to the site in order to replace the air conditioning in the Wisner House sunporch. The organization provides grants for endowment and capital projects with a focus on helping residents in Union County help themselves advance in school and life.

A total of $14,000 was awarded by the E.J. Grassmann Trust to order new computers and a sign-engraving machine. Displays throughout the 13.5-acre property will be upgraded with enhanced educational, directional, and interpretive language.

The E.J. Grassman Trust was founded in 1979 and provides grants for educational organizations, local hospitals, and health organizations. The trust focuses on organizations involved in ecological projects and social welfare initiatives that mostly center around helping children.

Organizations that have low administration costs and show efforts to achieve a broad funding base are given a higher standing for grant funding.

Reeves-Reed Arboretum operates as an independent non-profit organization that relies on grants and philanthropic support. Thousands of visitors each year visit the historic gardens, buildings, and take part in various educational programs in Summit.

"Support from these foundations allows Reeves-Reed Arboretum to remain a vital community resource," Kondel added.

More information regarding programs put on by the arboretum can be found on the Reeves-Reed website.

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