Bette Midler on Her Passion for Rebuilding Community Gardens

TL;DR

The New York Restoration Project (NYRP) aims to rehabilitate abandoned parks and gardens in New York City through community involvement and fundraising.

Transcript

well I started this organization in 1995 when I came back from Los Angeles after the earthquake and we were living downtown and I was driving my daughter every morning up to her school and I would drive up the West Side Highway and I would pass parks that looked like they needed a little bit of tender loving care so I called the man who was running... Read More

Key Insights

• 😨 NYRP was founded in 1995 by its founder after witnessing neglected parks in need of care.
• 🏡 NYRP has saved 110 gardens, renovating them to improve the overall quality of life in the city.
• 💖 The organization focuses on rehabilitating parks and gardens that are often overlooked and underfunded.
• 😎 NYRP strives to create urban green spaces to provide a breath of fresh air in a city dominated by steel, glass, and brick.
• 🖐️ The community's support and involvement play a vital role in NYRP's success.
• 💖 NYRP's mission aligns with the growing interest in urban farming, parks, and gardens.
• 💁 The organization's website serves as a hub for information, initiatives, and donations.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the founder come up with the idea for NYRP?

The founder was inspired by the sight of neglected parks during her daily commute and felt compelled to address the need for their restoration.

Q: How many gardens has NYRP saved and renovated?

NYRP has saved 110 gardens, with 60 going to the Trust for Public Land and 55 remaining under the organization's care for ongoing renovations.

Q: What is the main focus of NYRP's efforts?

NYRP concentrates on rehabilitating abandoned parks and gardens that lack the resources available to larger parks in the city, ensuring they can be enjoyed by the community.

Q: How can people support NYRP?

People interested in supporting NYRP's mission can visit their website, NYRP.org, where they can learn about initiatives, make donations, and get involved in community activities.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• In 1995, the founder of NYRP noticed neglected parks while driving her daughter to school, prompting her to start the organization.

• NYRP has saved and renovated over 110 gardens, restoring them to their former glory.

• The organization focuses on rehabilitating abandoned parks and gardens that do not receive the same resources as larger parks.