Finalist

Green Team Greenway Corps

Groundwork Hudson Valley
New York, NY

Over the last seven years, the Greenway Corps of Groundwork Hudson Valley has worked hand-in-hand with residents to transform a devastating brownfield into an innovative urban trail. The project connects one of the region's poorest inner suburbs to the NYC subway, while providing access for residents to Van Cortlandt Park for the first time. With a cohesive blend of STEM education, field training, and leadership support, the program empowers youth to successfully take on transformative projects. In this effort, the youth gained support from the community, partnered with NYC youth, designed trail segments, and are now assessing public health impacts.