LIBERTY — The 2022 class of Sullivan Renaissance interns worked alongside community volunteers, as well as staff from municipalities and Sullivan Renaissance in communities throughout Sullivan County this summer. Interns lead the way by caring for gardens, parks, containers, and flower boxes in public spaces and on main streets. They weeded, watered, litter plucked, and deadheaded. Interns contributed while gaining practical experience, and learning about their own abilities and work style. They participated in leadership sessions held throughout the county where they discussed current events, visited Renaissance projects and examined different leadership styles and skills.
“Our goal is to provide young people with an experience where they can develop a sense of place and find their voice on issues that are important to them,” said Anne-Louise Scandariato, Sullivan Renaissance Volunteer Program Manager. “Each year we meet amazing youth from throughout Sullivan County. We hope that their experience with this program will stay with them through the summer and beyond.”
On August 10, the Renaissance interns participated in a “Day of Service” at the Forest Reserve at Smallwood in the Town of Bethel. They worked with community volunteers, the Upper Delaware River Conservation Corp, and Renaissance on three different trails at the Reserve. The interns marked the trails, cleared low branches, brush, and debris, to make them safer and more accessible. They learned about the history of the Forest Reserve from Town of Bethel Supervisor Dan Sturm and Smallwood Civic Association President Jonathan Hyman.
“I am grateful to all the volunteers and interns for their work at the Forest Reserve at Smallwood,” noted Sturm. “They were upbeat, energetic and did a lot of much needed work. Their work will make it easier and safer for our community members to use the hiking trails, which helps to make us a healthier community. I want to thank all those involved on behalf of the Town of Bethel.”
The 2022 Sullivan Renaissance interns are:
• Gavin Bassney
• Erin Brawley
• Emma Curry
• Kristina Davis
• Lucia Kennedy
• Grace Loretto
• Jane Pape-Laucella
• Efraim Rivera
• Keegan Stroop
To learn more about the Forest Reserve at Smallwood please visit https://townofbethelny.us/the-forest-reserve.