Dear Friends,

Thank you for visiting CENYC -- the Council on the Environment of New York City. Our dedicated environmentalists have been creating a greener and more sustainable New York City for more than 30 years.

We work with communities block by block, person by person. Our Greenmarkets provide access to fresh, affordable produce in areas of the city rightfully called "food deserts". We teach tenants and building managers how to recycle and reduce waste. We create new green spaces and playgrounds in inner-city neighborhoods, and inspire young people to protect and improve their own living environments. Our programs touch the lives of all New Yorkers in lasting and meaningful ways.

The past year has seen a lot of exciting change and growth at CENYC. We proudly started new programs like "Learn It, Grow It, Eat It", which teaches Bronx school kids about nutrition the fun way, by having them grow and taste their own vegetables. Instead of just memorizing the USDA food pyramid, students learn about healthy choices in the classroom and then help to create those options in community gardens, making the connection between the environment and the food they eat.

Through our Farmers Market Food Stamp initiative, we have made New York City the national leader in connecting food stamp users with farm fresh produce. And by doing so, were delivering the most nutritious food to the people and communities who need it most.

In 2007, we partnered with the city and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority to educate New Yorkers about the importance of conserving energy and replacing their outdated appliances. And this year we also launched the Office of Recycling Outreach and Education, which is dedicated to helping the city reach its recycling and waste-reduction goals. These efforts, and many more, have placed CENYC in the forefront of the citys growing sustainability movement.

But as a non-profit, our work is only possible because of the generous donations of our supporters. If you want more information about our wonderful programs or would like to support these efforts, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Best wishes for a greener NYC,

Marcel Van Ooyen
Executive Director