A Special Night On The Town To Help Bring The Wonders Of Nature To All

RYE, NY — An organization that has helped make Rye famous as a place where the marvels of nature are accessible to even those surrounded by the concrete of the Northeast Megalopolis, is reaching more neighbors than ever, but the efforts truly take a village and every little bit helps.

Friends of Rye Nature Center (FRNC) will hold its annual Nature Access Fund Benefit fundraiser, "reaffirming its commitment that everyone, regardless of background or ability, should have the opportunity to experience the healing, inspiring, and unifying effects of nature."

The benefit will conclude with a thank you dinner at Rafele in Rye on Thursday, May 16, which donors are encouraged to attend.

FRNC says that its strategic partnerships with local schools and nonprofit organizations are instrumental in making sure that underserved populations are able to connect with nature.

Through donor-funded programs, FRNC has:

• Hosted inner-city scholarship fund students for 15 summers of camp.
• Held interactive workshops for YWCA residents, seniors, and those with developmental disabilities that foster a sense of purpose and belonging.
• Provided hands-on natural science education to children from various underserved communities, including Mamaroneck, Port Chester, and Mount Vernon.
• Broken down transportation barriers by bringing nature directly to communities through the mobile classroom NatureStation, offering hands-on exhibits and lessons on connection and conservation.
• Offered scholarships to Westchester families, nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards and leaders.

The organization says that supporting the Nature Access Fund is critical to fulfilling FRNC's mission. Dinner attendance is priced at $250 per person, with contributions of all sizes welcome.

If you are unable to attend on May 16, you are still able to donate here. For further information, contact Nicole Pennucci at this email address.

Friends of Rye Nature Center (FRNC) is dedicated to fostering an understanding and appreciation of our natural world and the environment through educational programming, conservation initiatives, and community outreach. Located at 873 Boston Post Road in Rye, FRNC provides transformative experiences in nature for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Find out more on their website.