Hunters Point Parks Conservancy

Background

The Hunters Point Parks Conservancy (HPPC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and advocating for the green spaces and waterfront of Long Island City, Queens. Established in 1998 as Friends of Gantry Plaza State Park, the organization expanded its mission in 2014 to include the newly opened Hunter’s Point South Park. HPPC's mission is to ensure these parks remain indispensable assets to the community by sustaining and beautifying the waterfront parks, serving as a community hub, and providing diverse and inclusive free programming for all.

Key Strategic Focus

HPPC focuses on several strategic objectives:

• Community Engagement: Organizing over 200 free programs annually, including fitness classes, children's activities, movie nights, and art workshops, to foster community involvement.

• Environmental Stewardship: Conducting regular volunteer gardening sessions to maintain park landscapes, remove invasive species, and plant native flora, thereby supporting local ecosystems.

• Infrastructure Improvement: Collaborating with city and state parks departments to fund park enhancements, such as installing new fixtures and purchasing plants to keep the parks vibrant and welcoming.

• Educational Initiatives: Operating the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center to provide environmental education and water-based recreation programs for the community.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, HPPC relies on a combination of individual donations, corporate sponsorships, grants, and fundraising events to support its operations:

• Individual Donations: Community members contribute to support programs and maintenance efforts, with donors of $150 or more invited to join the Green Guardians program.

• Corporate Sponsorships: HPPC offers various sponsorship options, including program-based support and annual sponsor packages.

• Grants: The organization has secured grants for park improvements, such as a $15,500 matching grant from the Environmental Protection Fund’s Park and Trail Partnership Grants program in 2022 for Gantry Plaza State Park enhancements.

• Fundraising Events: HPPC hosts events like the LIC Waterfront 5K and the Spotlight of the Season Gala to raise funds for park programs and improvements.

Pipeline Development

HPPC continually develops and expands its programs and initiatives:

• Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center: Opened in October 2023, this facility offers water-based recreation and environmental education programs, including field trips and public paddle events.

• Summer Kids Program: An annual series providing free children's activities, including yoga, fitness classes, and art programs, with plans to expand offerings to meet growing community demand.

• Volunteer Gardening Sessions: Regular events engaging community members in park maintenance, with ongoing efforts to increase participation and impact.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While HPPC's primary focus is on community engagement and environmental stewardship, it leverages technology to enhance its operations:

• Digital Outreach: Utilizing its official website and social media platforms to communicate with the community, promote events, and facilitate volunteer sign-ups.

• Environmental Education Tools: Incorporating interactive and digital resources at the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center to educate visitors about marine ecology and climate change.

Leadership Team

HPPC's leadership comprises dedicated individuals with diverse backgrounds:

• Rob Basch, President: Oversees the organization's strategic direction and community engagement efforts.

• Jessica Sechrist, Executive Director: Manages daily operations, program development, and fundraising initiatives.

• Ann Margaret O'Connor, Board Member: A lifelong Queens resident, Ann curates community events and advocates for local art and environmental conservation.

• Matthew Quigley, Board Member: A third-generation family business owner with experience in law and real estate, contributing to the organization's strategic planning.

Leadership Changes

There have been no recent significant changes or appointments within HPPC's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

As a nonprofit organization focused on park stewardship and community engagement, HPPC operates in a unique niche with limited direct competitors. However, similar organizations include:

• The POINT Community Development Corporation: A nonprofit dedicated to youth development and cultural revitalization in the Hunts Point neighborhood of the Bronx.

• Friends of the High Line: A nonprofit that maintains and operates the High Line park in Manhattan, offering public programs and community engagement initiatives.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

HPPC collaborates with various organizations to enhance its impact:

• New York State Parks Department: Partnering on park maintenance and improvement projects.

• Local Businesses: Engaging in sponsorships and event collaborations to support community programs.

• Environmental Organizations: Working with groups like the Newtown Creek Alliance to provide environmental education and advocacy.

Operational Insights

HPPC's strategic considerations include:

• Community-Centric Approach: Tailoring programs and initiatives to meet the evolving needs of the Long Island City community.

• Sustainable Funding: Diversifying funding sources through grants, donations, and events to ensure financial stability.

• Volunteer Engagement: Building a robust volunteer base to support park maintenance and programming efforts.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

HPPC aims to:

• Expand Programming: Introduce new events and activities to engage a broader audience.

• Enhance Environmental Education: Develop additional resources and programs at the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center.

• Strengthen Community Partnerships: Foster relationships with local organizations and businesses to support mutual goals.

Contact Information

• Website: hunterspointparks.org

• Social Media:

• Facebook: facebook.com/HuntersPointParksConservancy

• Instagram: instagram.com/hunterspointparks/

• Twitter: twitter.com/hunterspointpark