Sanctuary Garden at Greenburgh

The Garden Club of Irvington (GCI), in partnership with the Nature Center at Greenburgh, will restore a historic rock garden, beside the 1918 Manor House on the Nature Center grounds, into a thriving Sanctuary Garden centered on native plantings.

The Nature Center at Greenburgh serves one of the most diverse populations in Westchester County. While in close proximity to affluent villages, the Town of Greenburgh is economically and ethnically diverse. During the week, the preserve is filled with school groups on field trips, many representing Title I and underserved districts. These visits are often made possible through grants that fund transportation. The restored Sanctuary Garden will serve as an outdoor classroom and a welcoming space for education and reflection, ensuring lasting benefit to the community.

The project will remove invasive vegetation to reveal the original stone pathways, benches, scalloped bird bath, and tiered fountain that were once part of the original family gardens. Native shrubs, perennials, and ferns will be installed to support pollinators and enhance biodiversity.

GCI members will work alongside Nature Center staff, youth volunteers, and Rivertowns and District Rotary members to plan, plant, and steward the garden. Youth engagement will be central—the garden will become a featured project during monthly volunteer days where students from across Westchester complete community service hours.