Volunteer

Keney Park Sustainability Event

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Keney Parks Sustainability Vegetation Plantation Event:

 

On March 15th, 2019, UConn’s Graduate Net Impact Chapter visited the Keney Park Sustainability Project (KPSP). KPSP intends to create the next generation of healthy, productive and environmentally conscious citizens.

15 Uconn Graduate students helped KPSP in removing dead plants and vegetate lettuce, spinach and cilantro seeds. Uconn students learn about the impact of the environment on mental, physical and spiritual health. And how the practice of sustainable techniques promotes a healthy symbiotic relationship between us and our environment.

 

 

 

 

The Keney Park Sustainability Project goal is to support the development and sustainability of community-based food systems, i.e., farmers markets, community gardens, school-based gardening, agricultural project and home gardens. KPSP protect and preserve the 693-acre urban forest named Keney Park by providing individuals employable landscaping and forest management skills.  As a result, it is creating the next generation of employable parks workers and Environmental Stewards.

 

 

 

 

Projects of KPSP:

  1. Landscaping: Through landscaping project KPSPS is helping youngsters between 13 to 18 years of age to develop both professional and personal skills.
  2. Composting: KPSP compost is used in a mixture used to plant seeds, improve quality of soil and promote local food protection.
  3. Aquaponics: Aquaponics consists of growing fish and vegetables in a productive, integrated system in any outdoor space.
  4. Forest Management, Building & Design: KPSP forest management projects consist of clearing invasive species from the trails, upcycling forest materials and lumber, and overall keeping the trails of Keney Park clear for easy public access.
  5. Health and nutrition: KPSP Health and Nutrition program is focused on educating the community on healthy eating and providing access to nutrient-rich foods.

To find out more about Keney Park and get involved, visit https://www.keneyparksustainability.org/projects

 

UConn Grad Students Volunteer for Hartford Riverfront Recapture

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On October 13th, 2017, UConn’s Graduate Net Impact Chapter hosted a volunteer day for Riverfront Recapture, a non-profit organization that manages downtown Hartford’s riverfront park system.

An enthusiastic group of 21 UConn graduate business students got their hands dirty working to maintain the riverfront parks, leveling and grading several paths in preparation for the Hartford Marathon the following day. While bringing UConn business students together to help their local community was one goal of the event, it was also an opportunity for volunteers to learn about the importance of the Connecticut River to the vitality and economic development of Hartford.

Established at the confluence of the Connecticut and Park Rivers in 1637, Hartford has a long and complicated relationship with its rivers. In the 1930’s, major flooding issues led to channelization of these rivers and the construction of a levee system. In the following decades, an interstate highway was built on top of these riverfront levees, effectively cutting off downtown Hartford from the Connecticut River.

Pointing to a series of floodwalls on either side of the Connecticut River, Chris Hayes, Director of Operations at Riverfront Recapture, explained how Hartford’s aging levee system is now in need of major reconstruction. Without significant improvements, downtown Hartford is at risk of major flooding. Property owners may soon be forced to purchase flood insurance.

Since the 1980’s, Riverfront Recapture has led the effort to improve the quality of life in Hartford by recapturing its riverfront property for the economic development of the city and the enjoyment of the public. The non-profit organization manages Hartford’s four riverfront parks, and has continuously expanded the footprint and accessibility of the parks while offering cultural events and recreational activities.

To find out more about Riverfront Recapture and get involved, visit www.riverfront.org.