For those of you who regularly attend or tune in to a City Council meeting, when a speaker goes to the podium to provide an update, it’s generally informative but rarely riveting.
When Christine Siller, who’s been executive director of the Friends of Rye Nature Center for 14 years, delivered the organization’s annual report at the July 12 City Council meeting, everyone took note. She had us at nature access.
She painted a portrait of an organization that is thriving because it continues to expand its programs in meaningful ways, brings access to nature to more families here and beyond every year, and embraces a sustainable future for the City-owned 47-acre preserve of which they are environmental stewards.
“We dream big but stay green,” Siller offered with a smile.
Environmental education is at the heart of everything they do. Their Forest Preschool program lets children learn exclusively outdoors.
Earlier this year, the board and staff took stock of where the Nature Center is and wants to be. They are thinking ahead — programs for every generation through partnerships with other organizations, a more resilient forest, enhancing outdoor spaces, and operating out of the Parsons Estate Carriage House in addition to their very small main building.
When Mayor Josh Cohn asked how she had achieved such growth, she replied, “I am fortunate to have a board (18 members strong) that loves the Nature Center.” (She dedicated her presentation to FRNC heroes Michael Penziner, his late wife Judy, and Henry King for their inspirational commitment and love.)
“We listened to the community. We made the trails more user-friendly, created a playground that attracts more families.” She added, “We made it the polished gem it should have already been.”
Before leaving the podium, Siller said, “I’ll be back to talk about our future plans soon.”
We can’t wait.
