On Earth Day 2026, Sustainable South Jersey awarded $3,500 through its Caren Kaufman Memorial Fund to four local organizations advancing environmental stewardship across the region.
The program honors Caren Kaufman, a grassroots advocate whose legacy continues to inspire community-led sustainability efforts rooted in education, conservation, and connection to place.
“Our grantees reflect exactly what Caren believed in – that real change in South Jersey starts locally, with people who turn care into action and make their communities stronger. Each of these projects deepens the connection between people and places, restoring habitats, expanding hands‑on learning and building the kind of environmental stewardship that endures,” said Michael Moore, President, Sustainable South Jersey.
The 2026 Funded Projects
This year’s funded projects reflect a shared commitment to hands-on conservation, education, and strengthening local ecosystems:
Field to Flight Foundation- $1,000
To construct, install, and monitor 10–15 American Kestrel nest boxes across 2–3 active farmland or meadow sites in South Jersey using volunteers.
“This grant allows us to expand our Kestrel Initiative by combining hands-on conservation with community education, ensuring local residents play an active role in protecting this iconic species and our native habitats. We’re grateful for the opportunity to turn awareness into action,” said Keith Clayton, Co-Founder, Field to Flight Foundation.
Oaklyn Shade Tree Committee- $1,000
To plant four trees in Veteran’s Memorial Park on Kendall Boulevard, including a community event to dedicate the trees in recognition of the United States’ 250th anniversary.
“The Oaklyn Shade Tree Committee is thrilled to accept this award on behalf of our borough. Municipal budgets are so tight that we need the help of other organizations to fund planting efforts. Thank you Sustainable South Jersey for providing these needed funds.” said Lois Giovacchini, Chair, Oaklyn Shade Tree Committee.
Merchantville Green Team- $756
To plant a 20′ x 10′ garden along their Circuit Trail (aka the Merchantville Mile), featuring more than 25 native flowering plants.
“The Merchantville Green Team is thrilled to accept this grant honoring Caren Kaufman, a true hero in our region’s sustainability movement. These funds will allow us to expand our beautiful pollinator gardens along the Merchantville Mile, part of the NJ Circuit Trail network. Thank you Sustainable South Jersey for the good work you do and for your generosity in helping others do the same!” said Dorothy Foley, Leader, Merchantville Green Team.
Cherry Hill Rotary Club- $780
To install an arbor trail along the Red and Green Trails at Cherry Valley Trails, consisting of 16 tree-identifying sign posts.
“We’re grateful to Sustainable South Jersey for supporting this project, which will help make Cherry Valley Trails a more engaging and educational experience for residents of all ages. By adding tree-identifying signs along the trail, we hope to deepen the community’s connection to nature and inspire greater appreciation for our local environment.” said Mehlam Shakir, Rotarian, Cherry Hill Rotary Club.
Since 2018, Sustainable South Jersey has granted more than $29,000 in mini-grants to the South Jersey community.
These grants are made possible through individual donations, sponsorships, and proceeds from local events.
To support future projects like these, consider contributing to the Caren Kaufman Memorial Fund:
https://sustainablesouthjersey.org/donate-to-sustainable-south-jersey/
Interested in applying or learning more about the grant program? Visit our website for more details on upcoming opportunities.