“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." — Audrey Hepburn

Volunteers are the power of Brookdale Park Conservancy! Over the last 12 months volunteers added over 1,000 native plants, replenished our canopy trees, planted 500 bulbs and cleared hundreds of invasive plants like mugwort, honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese Knotweed to improve park views and create thriving habitats for the pollinator world.

The Conservancy is grateful for everyone who lent a helping hand and thrilled that each effort brings out more volunteers - over 120 volunteers showed up on Earth Day alone to plant 20 trees in the park. Volunteers allow the Conservancy to expand its efforts to improve the landscape of the park. Our mission is to preserve, enhance and promote the park, providing a voice for the community and collaborating with Essex County. Without a robust network of volunteers, we simply cannot do as much.

It’s not just about giving back. Volunteering in the park nurtures your well-being. Scientific studies have shown that volunteering improves mental health. Helping others activates our brain’s reward center and releases endorphins, serotonin and dopamine according to Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic. And working in nature is proven to bring us a sense of calm.

Volunteering in the park is good exercise, a mental escape, being in fresh air, connecting with nature, learning new gardening tips, having fun together, and getting to know our vibrant community. Plus volunteering as a family helps youth commit to the community, practice environmental stewardship, and build life skills.

The opportunities to get involved in Brookdale Park are numerous and no prior experience is necessary. We have a role for everyone of all ages and abilities. Take a look at our ongoing initiatives:

Community Monthly Volunteer Days -September - November and March - June email volunteer@brookdalepark.org
Maintenance Mondays - Join us every Monday June - August as we water and weed in the park to ensure our new plantings thrive and our gardens remain healthy. Email volunteer@brookdalepark.org
Rose Garden Wednesdays - Our dedicated team gathers weekly to tend the breathtaking roses in our garden. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn how to plant, prune and care for roses. Email rosegarden@brookdaleparkconservancy.org
Leadership / Backstage - help drive progress - grant writing, communications, locative media, develop new ideas. Email info@brookdalepark.org
Private Group/Corporate Volunteer Days - organizations like Montclair State University, AmeriCorp, Scouts BSA, the National Honor society, BMW Financial, Wiss & Co., L'Oreal and Commonwealth Club have already joined forces with us. If you're interested in organizing a team for a special project let us know! Email volunteer@brookdalepark.org

If you're eager to contribute your time and make a difference simply connect using the provided emails above. Community service hours are available for those who need them. 🌻

Be part of something truly special. Together, we'll create a greener, healthier, and vibrant Brookdale Park! 🌳🌱