To inspire the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and together create stunning public spaces and a strong community.
GEORGE BULLWINKEL
JESSICA GIBADLO
MARY TILT HAMMOND
SEAN HOLLERAN
GREER HOSTETTER
JASON KRONSBERG
HARRY LESESNE
CHARLEY MCLENDON, CHAIR
REV MATTHEW RIVERS
KATHARINE ROBINSON
ALYSANN SIEREN
AMANDA SLADE
SEAN SYKES
LESLIE TURNER
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Charleston’s parks are more than just green spaces–they are living, breathing extensions of our community, places where memories are made, nature and neighbors come together, and where we find respite from the demands of daily life. In 2024, the Charleston Parks Conservancy has been at the heart of this connection, ensuring these parks, gardens and trails are vibrant, accessible, and reflective of our city’s beauty and resilience
The overwhelming support for Colonial Lake in 2024 demonstrated our community's deep connection with its cherished public spaces. Through dedicated efforts and generous contributions, we successfully exceeded fundraising goals, ensuring this landmark continues to thrive with thoughtful gardens and sustainable plantings. This commitment to excellence extends beyond Colonial Lake as we continue our work to bring parks across Charleston up to the Conservancy’s high standards of care.
ELLIOT ACEVEDO
KATIE BELL
JOURNEY CLARK
KELLEN GOODELL
SAVANNAH GRAY
SAM HAAB
ZACHARY HARRIS
DARLENE HEATER
BECCA HUDSON
ROBERT MCCOMBS
SARAH NICKSA
SAM OWEN
CAROLYN ROTHKOPF
SYDNEY SCHWIEBERT
GILZA SMITH
EMILY TOPHAM
ALISON WARBURTON
KATE WHITE
In alignment with our mission, the Grow It Forward program made a lasting impact by expanding access to fresh organic produce for families experiencing food insecurity The program ’ s success and the growth of the production garden and Cut Flower Program have enriched lives by providing moments of joy to those who could use the support The Cut Flower program, in particular, touched countless individuals this year with beautiful blooms offering comfort and encouragement to women during some of life’s most challenging moments.
The Mulberry Park Food Forest, the first of its kind in South Carolina, has taken root as a beacon of sustainability and food access. With 75 fruit, nut and citrus trees, berry brambles and mushroom logs, this transformative project will provide free, year-round access to fresh food, projected to yield up to 30,000 pounds annually within the next few years.
Our commitment to investing in and caring for Charleston’s stunning park spaces was evident in the major renovations completed in 2024. Historic Wragg Square, Tiedemann Park, and Vangie Rainsford Park were revitalized, creating more welcoming and biodiverse environments Across our 26 parks, gardens and trails, we planted 46,.000 shrubs, perennials, and annuals to support local wildlife and enhance public spaces, while also giving away 1,200 trees to to residents to restore Charleston’s urban tree canopy.
The Conservancy’s success is powered by our community. With more than 8,400 volunteer hours logged and 90% of funding coming from private donations, it is clear that Charleston’s residents share our passion for beautiful, thriving parks. Thank you for being part of this journey and for believing in the power of parks to transform lives. Together, we den, one tree at a time.
CHARLES MCLENDON CHAIRMAN
DARLENE HEATER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO
In 2024, with the community’s financial and volunteer support, the Charleston Parks Conservancy completed three major horticultural renovations in the historic Garden District.
Historic Wragg Square saw extensive renovations honoring the lives and legacy of Patti and Peter McGee. In partnership with the City, the Conservancy restored the tree allée, preserved historic views, and created a diverse shade garden filled with unique plants inspired by Patti’s iconic Charleston gardens.
At Tiedemann Park, which struggles with flooding and recently lost a large shade tree, the Conservancy introduced vibrant new pollinator friendly plantings and refurbished a bioswale for better stormwater management, creating a more colorful, biodiverse and sustainable park in the heart of downtown Charleston.
The Conservancy revitalized Vangie Rainsford Park, creating a thriving garden with year-round interest. The project improved visibility and airflow and introduced perennials and shrubs, making the park more inviting to relax and view the iconic fountain in the center.
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is transforming public green spaces into thriving sources of fresh, organic produce to support food access in the community. The latest example of this initiative is the Food Forest at Mulberry Park, the first public food forest in South Carolina. Established in the Ardmore neighborhood of West Ashley, the Food Forest features 75 nut, fruit, and citrus trees, berry brambles, mushroom logs, a pollinator garden and herbs and root vegetables creating a sustainable, year-round food source. As it matures over the next 5-10 years, the forest is projected to yield 30,000 pounds of organic produce annually, providing free, fresh food to residents.
Food Forest Partners: City of Charleston Parks Department, Ardmore Neighborhood Association, Amanda Barton (Landscape Architect/Volunteer), College of Charleston
Sustainability Department, City and County Sustainability Departments, SC Forestry Commission, Clemson Research/Master Gardeners, Slow Food Charleston, SC Food Policy Council, MUSC Health Promotion, Keep Charleston Beautiful, The Pink House Neighborhood Resource Center, and Donna Jacobs.
The Charleston Parks Conservancy’s Grow It Forward initiative addresses food access across Charleston through strategic partnerships and educational programming. By collaborating with Amor Healing Kitchen, Stone Soup Collective, the Pink House, Charleston County Public Library, and other community partners, the Conservancy is increasing fresh produce distribution while expanding opportunities for community engagement.
Produce is organically grown in community gardens inside public parks throughout the city and donated to grassroots organizations addressing food insecurity in our city, ensuring fresh food reaches those who need it most. By partnering with organizations deeply embedded in these communities, we efficiently distribute produce where it's needed most.
OVER
The Pink House at Mulberry Park is a dedicated education hub teaching residents gardening, nutrition, and food sustainability. Grow It Forward leverages urban green spaces for food production and education, providing fresh, organic produce while empowering the community with knowledge. Partnerships like those with the Pink House and other neighborhood resource centers ensure the Conservancy makes a lasting impact for Charleston’s underserved residents.
In 2024, the Charleston Parks Conservancy expanded its community programming, hosting over 200 hours of events and activities–80% of which were free to the public. From life skills workshops and bouquet-making to birdwatching, public art installations, guided tours, and familyfriendly events, the Conservancy created diverse opportunities for the community to connect with their parks. The Conservancy incorporates sustainable practices in our community events including waste diversion through recycling, composting and reducing use of plastics
The annual Teddy Bear Picnic, a beloved community tradition at Hampton Park, earned the Charleston Parks Conservancy the 2024 Lehman Award for Park Foundation Excellence from the National Association of Park Foundations. Recognized for sustainability efforts, including a 60% reduction in landfill waste through reuse, recycling, and composting, the event received the Greenfields Excellence in Community Programming Award.
In 2024, the Charleston Parks Conservancy expanded free outdoor programming to connect residents with nature and each other. Organized tree, bird, herbal and social walks provided insight into Charleston’s diverse ecosystems. Over 40 guided walking opportunities throughout the year encouraged healthy habits and community. The Conservancy also hosted community potlucks and seed swaps, fostering a shared love of gardening and sustainability.
The free Music Series brought hundreds of neighbors together for evenings of live performances at Magnolia Park and Community Garden.
Through engaging programs, hands-on learning experiences, and community events, the Conservancy fostered deeper connections between residents and their parks. Neighbors discovered new ways to engage with and care for their shared parks, gardens, and trails through workshops, nature walks, and volunteer opportunities. The Conservancy enhanced Charleston’s vibrant public landscapes by transforming parks into places for learning, gathering, and growing.
Pollinator Paradise became the first permanent public art installation on the West Ashley Bikeway, celebrating pollinators’ vital role. Created by artist TuxedoKat in partnership with ArtFields, the piece launched the Conservancy’s 10-year Master Art Plan to transform the bikeway into Charleston’s first public art trail. Sponsors include The Joanna Foundation, the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, and the South Carolina Arts Commission.
Conservancy’s seasonal plant sales featured unique plant vignettes inspired by our different park environments to take the guesswork out of home gardening. Expertly curated by Conservancy horticulturists, the selections thrive in the Lowcountry’s challenging climate. Visitors enjoyed handson demos, local vendors, and expert advice from Conservancy professionals.
Charleston’s parks thrive because of the dedication of volunteers. In 2024, 1,500 volunteers contributed 8,300 hours, generating over $280,000 in impact. Individual, corporate and community groups p watering, and harvesting flowers and vegetables to be donated to th Bear Picnic and Light the Lake.
Advanced Technology International (ATI)
Auro Hotels
Booz Allen Hamilton
Beemok Hospitality Collection
Blackbaud
Ceridian
Charleston Breakfast Rotary Club
Charleston Jewish Federation
Charleston Junior Women’s Club
Davidson College
Elliott Davis
First National Bank
Frampton Construction
Greystar
Hazen and Sawyer
HDR, Inc.
Hilton Club Liberty Place
Huron Consulting
ICL
Base Charleston Lee & Associates
McMillan PLLC
Morrison Yard
Motley Rice
Pattison’s Academy
Phi Alpha Delta - Charleston School of Law
Porter Gaud
Providence UMC Youth Group
Raymond James REI
Sundrops Montessori The Beach Company The Limited by Marriott
& NTG
Academy
States Air Force
Lauren Bryant
Mary Casey
Patricia Chaney
Journey Clark
Claudia Cohen
Ellen Colehower
Christine Cotton
Laura Dubato
Sandra Eulas
Mathew Foster
Keilin Gamboa-Salazar
Judy Gilman
Lee Graybeal
Kathleen Gunning
Anwar Harris
Peter Hodson
Laurie Hull
Fran Hummel
Paul Keefer
Aaron Knight
John Kowaluk
Meghan Lord
David Marconi
Richard May
Sue McClinton
Karen Oliver
Shelly Ozark
Dereck Patterson
Kitanna Pichay
Cynthia Post
Layton Register
Katharine Freiberg y g
Sam Reipke
Marlene Rotter
Jose Saravia
Nancy Scheurer
Carmenzetta Simmons
Guerry Tamsberg
Meg Thompson
Meagan Trotta
Erin Walker
Amber Weakley
Marlene Williamon
Andrea Wojnarski
The Colonial Lake revitalization project is a community-led effort to restore and enhance this cherished Charleston landmark. Thanks to generous supporters and a multi-year commitment from The Beach Company to ensure the proper upkeep of the gardens, the Conservancy implemented strategic improvements throughout 2024, ensuring the lake remains a beautiful, sustainable, and welcoming space for future generations.
MADE POSSIBLE BY THE GENEROUS FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF THE COMMUNITY:
$50,000 - $10,000
Cindy and Ben Lenhardt
Claire & Colin Coletti
The Speedwell Foundation
$5,000 - $1,000
John M. Rivers Jr.
Maison Real Estate
Duncan MacDonald
Kristin Lindblad
Justin Ferira
Nigel and Kathleen Cooper
Brent and Jessica Gibadlo Household
Susan Richards
Todd and Adrienne Eischeid
Julie Kaminski
Madison Floyd III
Dominic Cioffoletti
Charles and Celeste Patrick
Jessica Aaron
After a successful spring fundraising campaign, the Conservancy began the first phase of renovations on the three acres of gardens surrounding the lake in September, removing invasive and overgrown species to make way for a beautiful and sustainable new plan.
William and CJ Kerr
Ken & Robin Hanger
Susan Kridler
Ronald & Pam Wyman
Croghan's Jewel Box
Joseph and Penelope Gnesin
$500 - $250
Hall T. McGee III
Philip Dufford
Sheran Becker
Megan Waligora
The Margaret Elizabeth Lewis Rev Trust
Bruce and Halette Thiers
Willie (Bill) Carswell
Roger Hanahan
Emily Ogden
Sidney T Smith
Elaine and William Simpson
Henry Blackford
karin L. carlson
Elizabeth Perrine
Edward Rawl
The Boeing Company
Linda Mays O'Quinn
Denise Mansheim
Peter Mani
Tracey Gillespie
Ryan Beyer
Kathleen Knorring
Lucius C. Beebe
Nancy Maher
James Hewlette
Alysann Sieren and Al Johnson
Joe McGee
James R. Davidson
Gary and Carolyn Gildersleeve
Willie (Bill) Carswell
$249 - $100
Amy Adams
Corrie Gladstein
Beverly Carson
Alisa M Tolliver
Anna O'Quinn
nancy scheurer
Susan and Michael Master
Jolene Struebbe
Peggy Levinson
Susan and Michael Master
Charles Duffy
Hannah Coyne
Hallie Seibels
Claron A. Robertson III
Kathryn J Brennan
Pamela and Robert Pearce Household
Paulo Hitopoulos
Susan and Michael Master
Elizabeth Russell
Jenny & Rich Rosenthal
Susan and Michael Master
Paul Keefer
Constance C Andrews
Melinda and William Allen
Susannah and Matt Hubbell
Avery Costigan
Ronald Cain
Susan and Michael Master
Daniel Scott
Marilyn Mattice
Marilyn Mattice
Susan and Michael Master
Blythe Penna
Michael and Laura Tayloe
Tony Chiappetta
Carla Marcinowski
B.V. and Daniel Messervy
Susan and Michael Master
$99 - $5
Larry Musetti
American Online Giving Foundation
- Benevity
Larry Musetti
Amanda Cunningham
Wells Fargo Employee Match
Charleston Parks Conservancy
Nancy and Peter Scaramella
American Online Giving Foundation
- Benevity
Nikki Ewing
Sandra H. Thornton
Diane Fletcher
Sherry and Hirsch
Nancy and Peter Scaramella
Grace Reed
Nicholas Helms
Lisa Turner
Jeannie Rogers
David Mendez
Lisa Woodring
Marian Greely and Darrell Olson
Melissa Barbour
Patrick Heyne
Bank of America Matching Gifts
Charitable Foundation
Patrick Heyne
Will Hardee
Bryanna Dering
George Mosby
Marguerite C Rhett
Jacqueline M. Whelan
Joan Ustin
Nate Dittman
Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar
Lisa Hartman
Chloe Ayo
Emily Topham
In December 2024, the Conservancy welcomed Molly Hendry as the lead landscape designer for the next phase of Colonial Lake’s revitalization. With expertise in urban park design, Southern native plants, and sustainable garden planning, Hendry led efforts to introduce resilient plant species better suited to Charleston’s evolving climate.
Hendry’s appointment reflects the Conservancy’s commitment to blending worldclass design with Charleston’s distinct character, ensuring Colonial Lake remains a thriving, dynamic space that enhances the landscape and the community’s connection.
With improvements continuing into 2025, Colonial Lake will remain a cherished space that embodies Charleston’s unique character and community spirit.
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is guided by a dedicated Board o Directors providing leadership in governance, strategic direction, an resource development to support the organization’s mission.
In January 2025, the Conservancy welcomed Lisa Field, Angel Johnson, and Leonardo D. Reeder to the board. They join returnin members Ross Appel, George Bullwinkel, Jessica Gibadlo (Boar Chair), Mary Tilt Hammond, Sean Holleran, Greer Hostetter, Jaso
The Board plays an essential role in advancing the Conservancy’s mission delivering remarks at key events, engaging with media, advocating for Charleston’s parks, and strengthening relationships with community partners and supporters.
The Charleston Parks Conservancy has formed an Advisory Council to provide expert guidance in environmental science, urban planning, and community development Working alongside the Board of Directors, the council will offer fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to help shape strategic initiatives and ensure Charleston’s parks remain vibrant, accessible, and well-maintained as the city evolves.
The 2025 Advisory Council includes the following members, who provide guidance on the Conservancy’s initiatives and deepen community ties.
Zach Bearden – Principal, Origin Development Partners
Elizabeth “Liz” Dieck – Chief of Staff, City of Charleston
Marlon Kimpson – Attorney, Motley Rice LLC
Casey Lavin – President, Beemok Hospitality Collection
M. Anthony McAlister Jr. – Founder and President, McAlister Development Company
Charles “Charley” McLendon – Managing Principal and Owner, Laurens Capital Advisors
Scott Parker – Co-founder, DesignWorks
Mike Seekings – Charleston City Councilmember, District 8
Doug Warner – Executive Vice President, Explore Charleston
26 parks, gardens & trails under Conservancy stewardship.
48,000+
new plants were installed to address environmental and climate concerns while providing beautiful natural respites in our parks.
8,300
hours were donated to assist in watering, gardening, harvesting, and more by 1,500 volunteers.
140 caps of mushrooms harvested and donated to local organizations that aid in food scarcity 140 caps is equivalent to over 13.5 pounds.
54
events and education programs held in our parks and green spaces This averages more than one event per week.
5,213
pounds of produce cultivated and harvested, then donated to local organizations to improve food insecurity in our community.
1,200 trees given away at no cost to restore the urban tree canopy in Charleston.
300+
different plant species maintained in the parks and community gardens
60+
varieties of vegetables, flowers, fruits, and herbs, including heritage and heirlooms, grown in the community gardens
Sustaining partners support the Conservancy through significant, multi-year commitments.
The Beach Company
City of Charleston
Colbert Family Fund of Coastal Community Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Charles McLendon, Jr.
The Darla Moore Foundation
Pathfinder Foundation
The Speedwell Foundation
Alison and Thomas Schneider
Theodora Park Fund of the BNY Mellon Charitable Gift Fund
$25,000 +
Claire & Colin Colletti
Cindy & Ben Lenhardt
Diageo
Explore Charleston
Paul & Holly Freestone
Icebox Innovative Beverage
South Carolina Forestry Commission
$10,000 - $24,999
Bank of America
Bayley Burnette Events
The Bee Cause
Beemok Hospitality Collection
The Boeing Employee Community Fund
Branch Properties, LLC
The Cassina Group
The Charles & Dana Berry Fund
Coastal Cruising Carts, LLC
Dominion Energy Charitable
$5,000 - $9,999
ATI Advanced Technology International
Bartlett Tree Experts
Ms. Catherine Dingler
Cooper River Bridge Run
Croghan’s Jewel Box
Cru Catering
Daniel Island Community Foundation Inc.
DesignWorks LC
Donna & Richard Tadler
Mr. Duncan MacDonald
The Exchange Company
Lisa Field Kiawah Partners
Lindblad Expeditions
Ma’am Saab
Maison Real Estate
Magnolias Restaurant
Steve Rhodes
Tinto y Creama
Trident United Way
US Foods
Fleet Landing
Jed Renfroe
John M. Rivers Jr.
Juliska
Kristin, Sven & Delfina Lindblad
Leon’s Oyster Shop
Guffey Family Foundation
Nigel Parry
Publix Super Markets Charities
Rockwell Construction LLC
Sam Albenberg
Mr. Sean Sykes
The Garden Conservancy, Inc.
United Community Bank
Vangie Rainsford
Vincent & Bullwinkel Orthodontics
Weesie Newton
$2,500 - $4,999
Braxton Crim
Charles McLendon
Chipper Dog BBQ
Crews Subaru of Charleston
Daniel Scott
Ellenora Jackson
Fidelity Charitable Trust
FNB Corporation
Gary Shank
George Bullwinkel
Greystar
Happy Homes Property Manager
Jacob Lindsey
Mr. John Kaczmar
Lavinia L. Klietmann
Layton Register
Mrs. Mary Hammond
Nicole Palame
Nora Smith
Rebecca Blackman Ramsay
Simple Generosity
Sorelle
South Carolina Arts Commission
The DeeAnn Flores Schertz Foundation
The Establishment
The Exchange Club of Charleston
The Joanna Foundation
The Maria and Steven Mungo Foundation
The Mark Elliott Motley Foundation
The Post and Courier Foundation
Tim Rogers
Mr. Tim Sinclair
Volvo Car US Operation Community Fund
$1,000 - $2,499
Adrienne Eischeid
Alexandra Malloy
Alexandra Nicholas
American Online Giving Foundation -
Benevity
Amy Templeton
Anderson Insurance Associates
Andrew W. Roskill
Anna Shuford
Apex Growth Coaching and Consulting
Arthur Hoey
Bess Allen
Brian Starer
Bumpa’s
Carl Wise
CAW Foundation
Celeste & Charles Patrick
Charleston Classic Yachts
Charleston Inside Out
Christine Deviney
Commonhouse Aleworks
Credit One Charleston Open
David Caraviello
Dirk Hoffius
Dominic Cioffoletti
Elizabeth Heck
Emily Pope Harris Art Fine Art & Installations
Geoff Carpenter
Mrs. Greer Hostetter
Henry and Sylvia Yaschik Foundation
ICL Specialty Products Inc
Jessica Aaron
Jessica Gibadlo
Joseph and Penelope Gnesin
Julia Berolzheimer
Julie Kaminski
Ken and Robin Hanger
Kim Ashley
Larry Wetzel
Laura Raffle
Lauren Cirillo
Leslie Smith
Linda Neill
Lindsey Carter
Lowcountry Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Madison Floyd III
Marie Lord
Mark Permar
Mary Colbert Denger and Michael Denger
Dicker Family Charitable Fund
Michael Master
Michelle Van Jura
Nancy C. Hall
Nicole Roskill
Nigel W. Cooper
Palm & Proper Destination Co.
Parker Hannifin
Rebecca Barnes Refuel Operation Company, LLC
Ronald Wyman
Rosemary & Rye Catering
Rudy Royale
Sally Lovejoy
Sprinter 4 Lease
Susan Kridler
Susan Richards
Suzan Zoukis
The Charlesmead Foundation
The Dewberry Charleston
The Starlight Motor Inn
The Wall Street Hotel
Mr. Thomas Legrande Berry III
Toni Dering
Wholesome Spirits Inc DBA Volley
Will Copenhaver
William & CJ Kerr
William Simpson
Wilson Jones
Dashi
David
Joseph Curto
Judy McCombs
Julia Amory
Karin Carlson
Katherine Robinson
Kathleen Knorring
Kathryn Haas
Kathryn J. Brennan
Kathy Kauffmann
Kenneth Bible
Kim Maloof
Larry Musetti
Lauren Netter
Ledlie Bell
Linda Mays O’Quinn
Lloyd Ray Jr
Longevity Club Charleston
Lori and Craig Neid
Lowcountry Oysters Company
Lucille Keller
Lucius C Beebe
Lynne Fuller
Margaret OBrien
Marilyn Mattice
Mary Smith
Matthew Chalifoux
Megan Waligora
Melanie Lovell
Melinda Allen
Melissa Cunningham
Melissa Furr
Melissa Nelson
Meredith Bauerband
Michael Lamberson
Mike Tayloe
Miles H Martschink
Minnow
Missee Fox
Monti Coolers
Mount Pleasant Garden Club
Nancy Scaramella
Nancy Scheurer
Patrick Heyne
Paul Keefer
Paulo Hitopoulos
Peggy Levinson
Perfect Point
Peter A Mani III
Peter Finnerty
Robert Dukes
Roger Hanahan
Ronald Cain
Ryan Beyer
Sandy Drolshagen
Sean Holleran
Sean Money & Elizabeth Fay
Sidney T Smith
Stacey Hanchuck
Stay Luggage Racks
Steve Krameisen
Summer Teegardin
Susan Clow
Susannah Hubbell
Susanne Rudiger
Susie Stewart
Tashi Marshall
The Margaret Elizabeth Lewis Rev Trust
Tony Chiappetta
Tracey Gillespie
USB Financial Services Inc
Venmo
Virginia Ann Lineberger
Will Waterhouse
William Buchanan
WODA Bags
Zero George
Acacia Braun
Albert
Alison Vaughan
Alissa Murgia
Mrs. Alyson W. Hodson
Alyssa Blosser
Amanda Cunningham
Ann Chauvin
Anna Brigid Creason
Arielle LeBoeuf
Ashley Chaney
B Stoney Johnson
Beth
Beth Lovett
Bill Roumillat
Bruce Markham
Bryanna Dering
Carol Joy Hume
Carol Stewart
Carolyn Allen
Carolyn Goff
Catherine Werle
Cathy Wright
Charleston Horticultural Society
Chelene Mobley
Chelsea White
Cheryl Boyle
Chloe Ayo
Chris Wilkins
Christine Callahan
Christine Kitch
Christine Sather
Connie Strickland
Corinne Corte
Courtney Brady
Danielle Feerst
Deborah Britt
Howard-Sandy Garfinkel
Volkman
Karen Richards
Katherine L. Sherpa
Kelly Krajeck
Kim Moore
Kim Sermersheim
Kimberly Tribou
Kristen Kazmaier
Kristina Harvey
Lana Hoffman
Laura Buchanan Kane
Laura Sampson
Lauren Carper Leara Martin
Leigh Trivette
Linda Price
Linda Rackley
Lindsay Kozel
Lisa Hartman
Lisa Turner
Lisa Woodring Luke Coffey
Mandi Herring Bello
Marcel Smeester
Marguerite C Rhett
Maria Mansfield Richardson
Marian Greely
Marion Neely
Marlene Rotter
Mary K. Fetscher
Mary McGovern
MaryBeth Osusky
Matt Swan
Matthew Rivers Jr
Megan Van Zutphen
Melissa Barbour
Michael A Molony
Michelle Kauczka
Miesha Green
Miranda Fox
Mollie Dadin
Nancy Scotch
Nate Dittman
Nicholas Helms
Nikki Ewing
Nikki Waldsmith
Octavia Williams
Ozey Horton
Patricia Agnew
Patrick Chipman
Paul Fox
Paul Oberhaus
PayPal Giving Fund
Peggy Morse
Raye Ann Osborne
Rick Spivey
Roy Owen
Samuel Rosen
Sandra AguillonSipe
Sandra H. Thornton
Sara Baggett
Sara Lucas
Scott Sampson
Sherry Hirsch
Starbucks Corporation
Stephanie Allen
Stephanie Snider
Sue Jackson
Teresa Wilberscheid
Teri Stech
Terry Hartnett
Tim Krupp
Virginia (Jan) Hillis
Virginia Beach
Weatherly Meadors
Will Hardee
William Marcil
William Smyth
Through collaboration and creativity, our committees have elevated gatherings into memorable experiences, making a lasting impression on all who attend. Their dedication to fundraising has allowed the Charleston Parks Conservancy to fulfill our mission.
Alex Malloy, Co-Chair
Lauren Netter, Co-Chair
Lizzie Armstrong
Marissa Carlisle
Elisabeth Hunter
Jennifer Jessup
Alexandra Macon
Michaela Mueller
Martina Radic
Laura Raffle
Jasmine Rose
Emily Schaible
Camila Soriano
Rebecca Ramsay, Co-Chairs
Kathryn Becker, Co-Chairs
Nicole Barnes
Lavinia Klietmann
Jeff Kuykendall
Naomie Olindo
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Charleston’s parks are evolving, and 2025 promises to be a year of transformation with a focus on our mission to create stunn spaces and a strong community. The Charleston Parks Conservancy is dedicated to creating a more sustainable and conn through ambitious revitalization projects, innovative partnerships, and expanded programs.
One of the year's most anticipated projects is the Colonial Lake Revitalization Collaborating with renowned designer and hor Molly Hendry, we are transforming Colonial Lake into a breathtaking, community-centered garden that blends beauty, fun resiliency. With a planned ribbon cutting in October 2025, the transformation will be celebrated with an inaugural eve Charleston, marking the beginning of a new era for this vibrant space.
We have made strategic hires in 2025 to grow our horticulture team and to reinvigorate our volunteer program with a ne volunteer manager. Volunteers are at the core of supporting our vision to connect people to their parks.
Our work to expand Charleston’s urban tree canopy continues in 2025. Through strategic partnerships, the Conservancy will do and offer free educational opportunities, empowering residents to increase tree coverage across the city, mitigate urban heat, a wildlife habitats
The Mulberry Park Food Forest is entering a pivotal stage in its development as it completes its first year of establishment. Soon, this innovative space will yield fresh, organic produce, providing essential food access to families facing food insecurity. It serves as a model for how parks can be activated to support critical community needs.
The Conservancy is also deepening its impact by activating parks through meaningful partnerships. Working with the, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, the City of Charleston, Explore Charleston, Trident United Way, and Keep Charleston Beautiful, we will bring dynamic programming and new resources to our 26 parks, gardens, and trails. Additionally, 80% of our events will remain free, ensuring accessibility for all residents while fostering connections among neighbors
In 2025, resilience and sustainability remain a focus We will introduce bioswales, rain gardens, and natural berms in vulnerable park areas to mitigate flooding and extreme weather events.
We are immensely grateful to our supporters, volunteers, and partners who make these transformative efforts possible.
With gratitude,
JESSICA GIBADLO BOARD CHAIR
Conservancy will transform Colonial Lake into a vibrant, sustainable garden. A ribbon cutting and the inaugural Bloom Charleston is planned for October 17-18, 2025, to celebrate.
The Conservancy continues donating trees and offering free education to help residents improve air quality, reduce heat, and restore habitats.
PROVIDING FRESH PRODUCE TO MORE FAMILIES
The Mulberry Food Forest will enter its first full year of production, supplying fresh, organic produce to families facing food insecurity.
ENHANCING PARK RESILIENCE & SUSTAINABILITY
Bioswales, rain gardens, and berms will be added to mitigate flooding and extreme weather.
ACTIVATIONS THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS
The Conservancy collaborates with SEWE, City of Charleston, and others to bring new programs and resources to its 26 parks, gardens, and trails.
The Conservancy will build on 2024’s success by increasing free workshops, events, and programs, keeping 80% of events free to the community.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO CULTIVATING A HEALTHY, VIBRANT, AND WELCOMING CITY, AND WE STRIVE TO ENRICH OUR DIVERSE COMMUNITY BY FOSTERING DEEP INVOLVEMENT IN OUR SHARED PUBLIC SPACES
Parks belong to everyone. We are better together, sharing our daily joys and sorrows and growing healthier and happier through time spent working and playing together in our public parks.
WE TREAT PUBLIC SPACES, PARK USERS, AND NEIGHBORS, BOTH PRESENT AND FUTURE, WITH RESPECT.
We are privileged to share in the stewardship of our magnificent parks, and we cherish the incredible contributions of ideas, time, and financial support from community members. We revere the historic legacy of our parks and our city’s investments in their design.
WE OPERATE AND EXECUTE OUR VISION ETHICALLY, WITH INTEGRITY, PASSION, HONOR, AND SINCERITY.
We value honesty in words and deed We honor our commitments to each other and to our community and approach every partnership with openness and accountability.
WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT DELIVERING INNOVATIVE AND CREATIVE PARKS, PROGRAMS, AND EXPERIENCES OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY.
We aspire to be leaders in the community in showcasing what is achievable when determination and creativity are aligned. From stunning, year-round horticultural displays, diverse programs, and fundraising to an unparalleled volunteer experience and vibrant, lively events, the Conservancy does it all at the highest level.
WE STRIVE IN EVERY FACET OF OPERATION TO RESPONSIBLY FORGE AN ORGANIZATION AND PARKS FOR ALL SPECIES THAT ENJOY AND RELY ON THEM FOR PRESENT AND FUTURE GENERATIONS.
We operate in a fashion that is conscious of today and the future, both administratively and horticulturally. By incorporating deliberate and sound practices, we commit to a legacy for the future of the Conservancy, our parks, and all the beings that utilize and cherish them.
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is focused now on broadening and diversifying community engagement, deepening, and increasing partnerships to increase its impact and broaden its support.
People embrace Charleston parks as an essential part of their lives. The Charleston Parks Conservancy forges a legacy for our community by combining bold horticulture and rich experiences in our parks. The work of the Conservancy is resourceful and sustainable.
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