Since the mid-1990s, Groundwork nonprofits have been established throughout the nation. These organizations begin with funding from the U.S. EPA Brownfields Program and staff support from the National Park Service Rivers & Trails Program. Groundwork USA, the network of Groundwork nonprofits in the U.S., is modeled after the Groundwork movement that started in Great Britain that began in the early 1980s and has spread throughout the world. (Click here to connect to other Groundwork programs around the world.)
Groundwork Yonkers began in 1999, following the city's successful application for federal start-up funding. After a steering committee and strategic planning process, the organization was incorporated in 2000 and obtained nonprofit status in 2001. Since then, it has turned vacant lots into beautiful gardens, completed two September 11th memorial gardens, and involved nearly 1,000 residents in community improvement projects.
In 2007, Groundwork continues to win praise for its work inside
and outside of Yonkers. It received the prestigious William H.
Whyte Award for the Daylighting of the Saw Mill River along with
the City of Yonkers, Struever-Fidelco-Capelli, and Scenic Hudson.
Groundwork's board voted to change its name to Groundwork
Hudson Valley to reflect
this expanded scope of operations, while continuing to use the
Groundwork Yonkers
name within Yonkers -- the hub of the Hudson Valley.
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Mission
History