Our Mission
In 1995, the Foundation received a $500,000 Green Acres
Grant from the State of New Jersey to begin the process of
transforming what was once a private home into a
small public garden and center for non-profit organizations.
Current Needs
| Over the years, storms and natural
erosion have taken their toll on the gardens, pathways,
access roads and other building structures on the
property. |
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In 2006, through a generous grant from The Helm Family
Foundation, the Van Vleck Board of Management commissioned the
development of a Master Garden Plan to guide the transformation
of the property from a private home into a public garden.
Pathways to the
Future
In May 2007, the Van Vleck Board of Management commissioned a
planning study to determine the feasibility of a capital
campaign to fund Master Plan improvements.
The study found substantial interest and potential support for
the campaign among community members.
In October 2007, The Montclair Foundation approved the Van Vleck
Board of Management’s decision to undertake a campaign to fund
implementation of the Master Plan.
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Current Needs
Implementation of the Master Plan
will cost approximately $2.2
million, which will include a Fund to support the
perpetual maintenance of the gardens.
To date, the campaign has raised more than $1.2 million in gifts
and pledges.
Primarily from our Founders and Trustees. |
Pathways to the
Future
Campaign contributions include:
- Four lead gifts at the $100,000 - $250,000 level
- A $125,000 challenge gift from The Montclair Foundation
- A generous commitment from the Van Vleck Family
- 100% participation by members of the Van Vleck Board of
Management.
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As a result of an early contribution to the campaign, we were
able to begin renovation of
the
gardens
with the design and execution of
the
Tennis Court Garden designed by Rodney
Robinson Landscape Architects..
Current Needs
Improvements include:
- Horticultural Renovations to the Azalea Walk and Rear Garden,
Formal Garden, Woodlands, Wisteria Courtyard & adjacent Borders.
- New Gardens as a means to extend the garden’s season of interest
a Winter Garden will be created as well as a Perennial summer
and fall flowering garden.
- Pedestrian Access Improvements through construction of a new
Entry Path, Upper Loop Path and Van Vleck Drive Path, and the
renovation of the House Entry and Parking Area.
- New Classroom and Outdoor Learning Center for education programs
for children and adults.
- New Service Drive & Service Area to ease congestion on
pedestrian pathways and provide vehicular access to maintenance,
catering and education areas.
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Thanks to Our Generous Supporters!
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