WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE CHARLESTON PARKS CONSERVANCY (CONSERVANCY)?
Our mission is connecting people to their parks and in turn increasing the quality, awareness, appreciation and usage of Charleston’s parks and greenspaces. We open doors to individuals and communities in Charleston wanting to engage with their parks and greenspaces in a kaleidoscope of positive ways.
HOW IS THE CONSERVANCY FUNDED?
The Conservancy is funded primarily from an endowment, contributions made by individuals, corporations and foundations, as well as matching support from the City of Charleston as part of the public-private partnership. The Conservancy also hosts a number of fundraising events and program revenues also help to fund Conservancy-based initiatives.
HOW DOES THE PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITY OF CHARLESTON WORK?
Commencing on Oct. 1, 2008, the Conservancy must raise and expend annually a minimum of $1 million for maintenance and repairs, public programs, landscaping and rehabilitation, or repair of existing facilities, subject to certain exclusions. In exchange for meeting those requirements, the City will commit to the Conservancy a minimum of $1 million in services, materials and maintenance to projects jointly agreed upon by both parties. This minimum commitment can be increased up to a maximum of $3 million by formula, based on the amount by which the Conservancy exceeds its $1 million threshold in any one year.
HOW WILL FUNDS RAISED BE USED?
Donations are used for capital improvements, to provide horticultural care and maintenance, and other program content, which relates to the overall Conservancy initiatives.
ON WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS WILL THE CONSERVANCY WORK?
The Conservancy currently works on park and greenspace projects that can demonstrate the three-partner involvement scheme. The Conservancy, the City and a community must be willing to commit to long-term service and support before a commitment is made to project. This includes annual contributions as well as volunteer support coming from those communities involved with the greenspace.
IN WHAT GEOGRAPHIC AREAS WILL THEY WORK?
The Conservancy’s general focus is within the boundaries of the City of Charleston’s 120 parks and greenspaces. This includes the areas of Daniel Island, the Charleston peninsula, West Ashley, James Island and Johns Island. Educational programing is serving the greater Charleston community beyond the limits of the city borders.
WHAT IS A PARK ANGEL?
The Charleston Park Angels are the community supporters that make the Conservancy’s mission come to life. A Park Angel understands the importance and value of preserving, sustaining and beautifying Charleston’s green assets. Park Angels are involved in all facets of the Conservancy’s work from planting in parks to spreading the word through a variety of social networks.
HOW DO I BECOME A PARK ANGEL?
Becoming a Park Angel is very easy. Just visit charlestonparksconservancy.org and sign up for free. It's quick and easy. As a Park Angel you will also get all the latest information on park needs, new classes, work days, initiatives, events, etc.
HOW CAN I MAKE A DONATION TO OR GET INVOLVED WITH THE CHARLESTON PARKS CONSERVANCY?
To volunteer or get involved in working in the parks, contact Paul Wentz at 843-724-5003 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). To make a donation, contact Amy Jenkins at 843-724-5003 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
