About us
Dedicated to the preservation and conservation of our planet’s natural resources
Angel Conservation is a dedicated community organization based in the heart of Brooklyn, committed to the vital mission of environmental preservation and sustainable living. We believe that the health of our planet is intrinsically linked to the well-being of our communities, and our work is centered on the idea that collective action can yield extraordinary results. Our organization serves as a bridge between scientific conservation strategies and local community engagement, ensuring that every individual has the tools and knowledge necessary to contribute to a sustainable future. By focusing on both local ecosystem restoration and global environmental advocacy, we create a multi-faceted approach to conservation that addresses the most pressing challenges of our time, such as habitat loss and climate change, while fostering a deep, personal connection between urban residents and the natural world. This connection is vital because we recognize that people only protect what they love, and they can only love what they truly know and understand through direct, meaningful experience.
Our Story
A journey of growth and community impact from the heart of Brooklyn
The origin of Angel Conservation traces back to a shared vision among a small group of passionate environmentalists, local parents, and educators who recognized a critical need for nature-based education in urban settings. Starting as a grassroots initiative in a small Brooklyn park, we began by revitalizing neglected local green spaces, clearing debris from community lots, and hosting small weekend workshops for neighborhood families who were hungry for a connection to the earth. Over the years, this spark of an idea grew into a robust organization characterized by steady growth and an unwavering commitment to our core principles of integrity and accessibility. We have evolved from a local volunteer group into a professional conservation entity that manages diverse programs ranging from urban reforestation projects to comprehensive environmental curriculum development for schools throughout the city. This journey has been defined by the incredible support of our community, whose enthusiasm for our mission has propelled us forward through every challenge and milestone, proving that there is a deep-seated desire for environmental connection even in the busiest of cities.
What We Do
Implementing innovative and effective conservation strategies through community action
Our programs at Angel Conservation are designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging experience that touches on every aspect of environmental stewardship and personal growth. We offer a diverse array of activities that cater to different age groups and interests, from toddler nature walks to adult citizen science projects, ensuring that everyone can find a way to connect with our mission in a way that resonates with their own life. Our daily activities are carefully curated to balance structured learning with open-ended exploration, allowing participants to engage with the natural world in a way that is both educational and deeply restorative for the mind and spirit. Whether we are conducting field research on local bird migrations, participating in complex habitat restoration projects, or engaging in creative nature-based arts that reflect the beauty of our findings, our goal is always to foster a holistic understanding of our environment and our place within it. We emphasize the practical application of conservation skills, teaching participants how to compost, garden sustainably, and reduce their carbon footprint in their daily lives.
Our Mission
To protect and preserve the world’s natural beauty for future generations through collective effort
Our mission at Angel Conservation is to create a sustainable future for all living beings by implementing innovative and effective conservation strategies that are grounded in community needs and scientific reality. We believe in the power of collective action and are committed to fostering a community of individuals who share our passion for environmental preservation and who are ready to take the lead in their own neighborhoods. Our work is driven by the conviction that every person, regardless of age or station, has the potential to be a catalyst for positive change if they are given the right tools and inspiration. We strive to provide the resources necessary to turn that potential into reality, from providing native seeds for community gardens to offering professional training for future environmental scientists. By combining high-level advocacy with grassroots education and direct, on-the-ground action, we work tirelessly to protect the planet’s natural resources and ensure that the beauty of our world is preserved in all its complexity. We are not just saving the environment for the sake of nature; we are saving it for ourselves and for the health and happiness of all those who will inherit the earth after us.
Our Vision
Aspiring to be a global leader in community-driven environmental preservation
Our vision for the future is one where humanity lives in perfect harmony with the natural world, recognizing our shared responsibility as stewards of a finite and beautiful planet. We envision a world where sustainable practices are the norm rather than the exception, and where every community is empowered to protect and nurture its local environment as a primary priority. Angel Conservation strives to be at the forefront of this movement, serving as a global model for how urban organizations can lead the way in environmental restoration and innovative education. We aim to expand our programs to reach even more diverse and underserved populations, breaking down the historic barriers to nature access and ensuring that the benefits of a healthy, green environment are shared by all people equally. We see a future where urban forests are as common as skyscrapers and where every child grows up with the knowledge that they are an integral part of the earth’s ecosystem, equipped with the skills to defend it.
Our Values
Integrity compassion and dedication in every action we take
The core principles that guide Angel Conservation are rooted in a deep respect for all life and a commitment to transparency and excellence in everything we do. We value integrity in our scientific pursuits, ensuring that our data and our strategies are robust and honest, and we value compassion in our community interactions, recognizing that everyone is at a different stage in their environmental journey. We are driven by a dedication to our long-term goals of planetary health, refusing to settle for short-term fixes that do not address the root causes of environmental degradation. We believe that environmentalism should be inclusive and accessible, and we work to create a culture where every voice is heard and where every contribution, no matter how small, is valued and celebrated. These values are not just abstract concepts but are reflected in our daily operations, from the ethical sourcing of our materials to the way we interact with our partners, ensuring that our organization remains a trusted and reliable force for good in a changing world.
Our Impact
Measuring our success through the thriving ecosystems and empowered communities we build
The impact of Angel Conservation is measured not only in the number of trees planted or the square footage of land protected, but in the lasting change we inspire within our community’s heart and mind. We have successfully transformed neglected urban spaces into thriving habitats that support local biodiversity and provide critical waypoints for migratory species, while simultaneously providing essential green space for city dwellers to recharge. Our educational programs have empowered a new generation of environmental leaders who are equipped with the knowledge and passion to tackle the climate crisis head-on through both local and national advocacy. By fostering a sense of shared ownership and responsibility, we have strengthened community bonds and created a resilient network of advocates who are committed to a sustainable future even in the face of daunting challenges. Our contribution to the community is a testament to the power of coming together for a common cause, proving that when we work together, we can restore the earth and ourselves in the process.
Our Team
Meet the dedicated professionals who lead our conservation and education efforts
Dr. Sarah Jenkins, Executive Director
Dr. Sarah Jenkins brings over twenty years of extensive experience in environmental science and organizational leadership to her role as the Executive Director of Angel Conservation. With a Ph.D. in Ecology and a background in community development, Sarah has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between complex environmental issues and public engagement, ensuring that science is used as a tool for empowerment. Her caring approach is evident in how she mentors her staff and interacts with the families who participate in our programs, always taking the time to listen and provide guidance. Sarah believes that the key to successful conservation is empathy and understanding, and she works tirelessly to ensure that our organization remains a warm and welcoming place for all. Her visionary leadership has been instrumental in growing Angel Conservation into the respected institution it is today, always keeping the focus on our mission to protect the world for future generations and advocating for the inclusion of nature in urban planning.
Michael Thompson, Lead Environmental Educator
Michael Thompson is a passionate educator with a Master’s degree in Environmental Education and a decade of experience working with children and young adults in diverse outdoor settings. His unique ability to make complex scientific concepts, such as photosynthesis or ecological succession, accessible and exciting has made him a beloved figure in our community and a mentor to many. Michael’s approach to teaching is centered on fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging his students to explore the world with open eyes and hearts while developing their own unique questions. He is deeply committed to the social and emotional development of his students, recognizing that a connection to nature is a powerful tool for building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging in the world. Michael’s dedication to his craft and his genuine care for his students ensure that every educational experience at Angel Conservation is both impactful and memorable, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he teaches.
Elena Rodriguez, Conservation Coordinator
Elena Rodriguez oversees our direct conservation efforts and habitat restoration projects with a blend of scientific precision and a deep, lifelong love for the natural world. With a background in forest management and urban planning, Elena brings a wealth of technical knowledge to our team, ensuring that our projects are both effective and sustainable over the long term. She is known for her collaborative spirit, working closely with volunteers, government agencies, and community partners to achieve our shared goals of ecosystem health. Elena’s approach is rooted in the belief that we are all caretakers of the earth, and she finds great joy in helping others discover their own capacity for environmental stewardship and direct action. Her expertise in native plant species and urban biodiversity is vital to the success of our on-the-ground conservation work in Brooklyn and beyond, and she is a frequent speaker at regional conservation conferences.
David Chen, Community Outreach Manager
David Chen is the primary point of contact for our families and community partners, bringing a background in social work and a passion for environmental justice to his role. David excels at building strong, lasting relationships and ensuring that our programs are inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or economic status. His warm and professional demeanor makes him a natural leader in our community engagement efforts, and he is always looking for new ways to connect people with our mission through innovative events and partnerships. David believes that a strong, connected community is the foundation of any successful conservation effort, and he works tirelessly to foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose among our members. His commitment to social equity and environmental preservation makes him an invaluable asset to the Angel Conservation team, as he ensures that our work benefits every corner of our community.
Our Work
Holistic approaches to environmental education and ecosystem preservation
Angel Conservation is a dedicated community organization based in the heart of Brooklyn, committed to the vital mission of environmental preservation and sustainable living. We believe that the health of our planet is intrinsically linked to the well-being of our communities, and our work is centered on the idea that collective action can yield extraordinary results. Our organization serves as a bridge between scientific conservation strategies and local community engagement, ensuring that every individual has the tools and knowledge necessary to contribute to a sustainable future. By focusing on both local ecosystem restoration and global environmental advocacy, we create a multi-faceted approach to conservation that addresses the most pressing challenges of our time, such as habitat loss and climate change, while fostering a deep, personal connection between urban residents and the natural world. This connection is vital because we recognize that people only protect what they love, and they can only love what they truly know and understand through direct, meaningful experience.
Play & Exploration
Fostering a lifelong love for the earth through unstructured discovery
The second pillar recognizes the essential role of unstructured time in nature for personal development, creativity, and mental well-being. We provide safe, guided opportunities for children and adults to immerse themselves in the natural world, fostering a sense of joy and wonder that is often missing in the fast-paced, high-stress environment of urban life. This aspect of our work is vital for building a lifelong love for the environment, as it allows individuals to form a personal, emotional connection with the earth that is not based on fear or duty but on pure appreciation. By allowing for moments of quiet observation and imaginative play, we help our participants rediscover the restorative power of nature. This emotional bond is the strongest motivator for long-term stewardship, turning the act of conservation from a chore into a deeply felt personal priority.
Social & Emotional Development
Using the natural world as a backdrop for resilience and empathy
Our third pillar uses nature as a backdrop for building essential life skills such as patience, cooperation, and resilience. We emphasize teamwork and empathy in all our activities, recognizing that a healthy relationship with the environment goes hand in hand with a healthy relationship with oneself and others. In the outdoors, challenges are met collectively, and successes are shared, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support among our participants. By addressing the whole person—their emotional health as well as their intellectual understanding—we create a more profound and lasting impact that extends far beyond environmental science. This approach builds the social fabric of our community, ensuring that our members are not only better environmentalists but also more compassionate and resilient neighbors.
Programs and Services
Tailored environmental experiences for every stage of life and learning
Angel Conservation offers a wide variety of programs designed to meet the specific needs and developmental stages of different age groups, from early childhood to active adulthood. Our youth programs are particularly popular, providing a safe and stimulating environment where children can learn through discovery, play, and peer interaction under the guidance of expert educators. We offer a specialized environmental curriculum that aligns with and expands upon state standards, providing a much deeper dive into science than traditional classrooms allow. Our special activities include weekend family workshops where parents and children learn side-by-side, seasonal nature camps that offer immersive experiences during school breaks, and community restoration days where everyone comes together to work on a local project. We are proud to serve a diverse population and are committed to making our programs accessible to all families in our community, offering scholarships and community-based events to ensure that financial barriers never stand in the way of environmental connection and education.
Community and Engagement
Building a strong network of families and partners dedicated to a sustainable future
Community is at the heart of everything we do at Angel Conservation, and we are committed to fostering deep levels of family involvement and community pride in all our programs. We believe that when families learn and act together, the impact is far greater and the lessons are more likely to be integrated into the home environment. We also place a high value on our community partnerships, working closely with local schools, neighborhood associations, businesses, and other non-profits to create a unified front for environmental preservation and urban greening. Our calendar is filled with events and activities that bring people together, from neighborhood clean-ups and native plant sales to environmental film screenings and guest lectures by leading scientists. These gatherings provide a vital opportunity for our members to connect, share ideas, and celebrate our collective achievements in protecting our planet, building a social fabric that is as resilient as the ecosystems we strive to protect.
Testimonials
Real stories of growth and connection from our Angel Conservation family
Amanda Miller, Parent of a 4-year-old Finding Angel Conservation has been a truly transformative experience for our family and especially for our young son, who was previously quite disconnected from the outdoors. He used to be very hesitant about getting his hands dirty or exploring the local park, preferring to stay inside with his toys, but since joining their early childhood program, he has become a true nature lover. The educators are incredibly patient and they genuinely care about each child’s individual development, creating an environment where he feels safe to take risks and explore the world around him. I’ve seen such a significant growth in his confidence and his empathy for living creatures, from the smallest bugs to the tallest trees in our neighborhood. It’s a wonderful community to be a part of, and I can’t recommend them enough to any parent looking for a meaningful and nurturing experience for their child.
Robert Sullivan, Parent of a 10-year-old Our daughter has been participating in the weekend workshops at Angel Conservation for two years now, and the impact on her worldview has been incredible. She has developed a deep and sophisticated understanding of environmental issues that goes far beyond what she learns in her standard school curriculum, and she is constantly coming home with new ideas for how our family can be more sustainable. The team at Angel Conservation treats the children with such respect, empowering them to see themselves as real scientists and advocates who have the power to change the world. It’s more than just a program; it’s a place where she feels heard, valued, and inspired to take action. We are so grateful to have such a professional and caring organization right here in Brooklyn that prioritizes the future of our children and our planet.
Jessica Wu, Parent of an 8-year-old The summer camps at Angel Conservation are the absolute highlight of my son’s year, and he looks forward to them for months in advance. He comes home exhausted but absolutely beaming with stories about the things he discovered, the animals he saw, and the new friends he made while exploring the urban forest. What I love most as a parent is the perfect balance between structured learning and just letting the kids be kids in a natural setting. The staff is exceptionally qualified and they handle everything with such a professional yet warm and personal touch that makes us feel like family. As a parent, I feel completely confident in the safety and quality of the programs they provide. It’s rare to find an organization that manages to be so scientifically grounded while remaining so family-friendly and welcoming to all.
Daniel Goldberg, Parent of a 6-year-old We initially joined Angel Conservation just looking for an outdoor activity for our daughter, but we found a second home and a community of like-minded people. The sense of community here is palpable, and the commitment to the mission is inspiring to everyone who walks through their doors. My daughter has learned so much about the local ecosystem and she takes such immense pride in the restoration projects she’s helped with, often dragging us to see “her” trees in the park. The social and emotional growth I’ve seen in her is just as significant as the environmental knowledge she’s gained over the past year. She’s learned how to work in a team and how to care for the world around her in a very practical, hands-on way that has changed her perspective on life. Angel Conservation is a true gem in our city and a vital resource for families.
Our volunteer
Transforming passion into purposeful action for the planet
Volunteering with Angel Conservation is a powerful and rewarding way to give back to the planet and your local community while gaining valuable skills and making new friends. We believe that everyone has something unique and valuable to offer, and we provide a wide range of ways to help that cater to different skills and schedules. The philosophy of our volunteer program is rooted in the belief that true environmental preservation is a collective responsibility that requires the diverse talents of a whole community. When you choose to spend your time with us, you are not just performing a service; you are becoming an integral part of a movement that seeks to reconcile urban life with the natural world. Our volunteers are the heart of our operations, providing the essential energy, passion, and dedication that allow our organization to thrive and expand our reach to more people every year. Whether you have an hour a week or a day a month, your contribution helps to ensure that the natural beauty of our world is protected for all future generations, creating a legacy of care that will far outlast any single project.
Restoration and Field Operations
Getting your hands in the earth to heal our local ecosystems
For those who enjoy physical activity and being outdoors, our Restoration and Field Operations team offers the perfect opportunity to make a tangible, visible difference in the Brooklyn landscape. As a field volunteer, you will work alongside our conservation experts to physically repair fractured urban ecosystems by clearing invasive species, remediating contaminated soil, and planting native trees and shrubs. This work is both challenging and deeply rewarding, as you get to see a grey, neglected lot transform into a vibrant, green habitat through your own hard work. We provide all the necessary tools and comprehensive training in sustainable land management techniques, so no prior experience is required—just a willingness to get your hands dirty and a passion for restoration. You will learn about local botany, soil health, and the specific needs of urban wildlife, becoming a skilled steward of the land. These projects are vital “stepping stones” for migratory birds and local pollinators, and by participating, you are directly contributing to the resilience of our city’s biodiversity in the face of a changing climate.
Educational Mentorship and Youth Support
Inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders through service
If you are passionate about education and have a desire to mentor the next generation, our Educational Mentorship and Youth Support programs allow you to play a vital role in shaping the environmental advocates of tomorrow. Volunteers in this section assist our lead educators in conducting nature walks, facilitating classroom activities, and supervising hands-on discovery sessions for children of all ages. Your role as a mentor is to foster a sense of wonder and curiosity, helping children identify local bird species, understand the life cycle of a plant, or discover the tiny ecosystems living under a single rock. By sharing your own enthusiasm for the natural world, you help to build the confidence and environmental literacy that these young people will need to lead our community in the future. We believe that having a diverse group of adult role models is essential for children’s development, and our volunteers bring a wealth of different perspectives and life experiences that enrich our students’ learning. This is a chance to make a lasting impact on a young person’s life while deepening your own connection to the environment through the eyes of a child.
Behind the Scenes Advocacy and Creative Service
Utilizing your unique professional skills to amplify our mission
At Angel Conservation, we recognize that some of the most critical work happens away from the field, in the realms of communication, organization, and creative advocacy. Our Behind the Scenes team welcomes volunteers with skills in photography, graphic design, social media management, grant writing, and event planning to help us amplify our message and reach new audiences. These professional skills are just as vital to our success as planting trees, as they allow us to tell our story effectively, secure necessary funding, and organize the community events that bring us all together. By lending your creative or administrative expertise, you help us build a more resilient and visible organization that can advocate more effectively for environmental policy and justice. This is an ideal way for busy professionals to contribute their specific talents to a cause they care about in a way that fits their schedule and expertise. You will collaborate with our core team on high-impact projects, from designing our annual report to managing our digital community platforms, ensuring that the spirit of Angel Conservation is felt throughout the city and beyond.
Frequently Asked questions
Answering your questions about our programs safety and enrollment process
We understand that you may have questions about how our organization operates, and we are committed to providing clear, comprehensive, and honest information to all our community members. Regarding enrollment, we offer a straightforward and accessible online process and are always available to discuss which program might be the best fit for your family or individual needs through a personal consultation. Safety is our absolute top priority, and we maintain strict protocols for all our outdoor activities, ensuring that all staff are fully trained in first aid and that our environments are carefully monitored for any potential risks. Our curriculum is designed by environmental experts and experienced educators to be both rigorous and engaging, and we take great care in planning our schedules to balance high-energy activity with periods of rest and quiet reflection to ensure the best experience for our participants.
How do I enroll my child or myself in one of your conservation programs?
We understand that starting a new educational journey can feel overwhelming, so we have designed our enrollment process to be as straightforward and accessible as possible for all community members. To begin, you can visit our “Enrollment” portal on our website, where you can browse our current program offerings, filtered by age group, interest area, and schedule. Once you have identified the right program for your needs, you can complete our secure online application form, which takes about ten minutes to finish. After submission, a member of our community outreach team will reach out to you within two business days to confirm your spot and provide you with a welcome packet containing all the necessary details. If you are unsure which program is the best fit, we are always available for personal consultations via phone or video call to discuss your family’s unique goals and individual needs.
What specific safety measures are in place for outdoor and field activities?
Safety is our absolute top priority at Angel Conservation, and we maintain rigorous protocols to ensure the well-being of every participant during our outdoor and field operations. All of our lead educators and field coordinators are fully trained in first aid and wilderness safety, and we maintain low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure that every participant receives constant supervision. Before any field activity begins, our team conducts a thorough safety sweep of the area to identify and mitigate any potential risks, and we always carry comprehensive first-aid kits and emergency communication devices. We also work closely with local authorities to stay updated on weather conditions and environmental safety alerts, and we have established clear evacuation and emergency procedures for every site we use. By creating a secure and highly monitored environment, we allow our participants to focus entirely on the joy of discovery and learning without any unnecessary concerns.
What is the educational philosophy behind your specialized curriculum?
Our educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that the most profound learning happens through direct, hands-on inquiry and a deep emotional connection with the natural world. We have developed a specialized curriculum that integrates rigorous environmental science with creative exploration, encouraging students to ask their own questions and find their own answers through observation. We emphasize a “whole-child” approach, recognizing that intellectual growth must be supported by social and emotional development, and we use nature as a backdrop for building resilience and empathy. By aligning our programs with state standards while providing a much more immersive experience than a traditional classroom, we ensure that our students develop a sophisticated and lasting understanding of ecology. Our goal is not just to teach facts, but to foster a lifelong mindset of stewardship and a deep sense of belonging within the earth’s complex ecosystems.
How are meals and snacks handled, and do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We believe that nutrition is an essential component of a healthy learning environment, and we strive to provide snacks that reflect our commitment to sustainability and local health. For our full-day programs, we encourage families to provide a healthy, sustainable, and nut-free lunch that can be easily eaten outdoors, while we provide nutritious mid-day snacks that emphasize local, organic produce. We are fully equipped to accommodate a wide variety of dietary restrictions and allergies, and we ask that parents provide detailed information during the enrollment process so we can ensure a safe and inclusive eating environment for everyone. Our staff is trained in food safety and allergy awareness, and we maintain a strictly nut-free environment in all of our classrooms and field sites. By teaching children about the sources of their food and the benefits of eating locally, we help them develop a more holistic understanding of how their daily choices impact both their own health and the health of the planet.
In what ways can parents and family members get involved with the organization?
We believe that environmental stewardship is most effective when it is a shared family value, and we offer many opportunities for parents and family members to get deeply involved in our mission. Parents can volunteer for our community restoration days, join our family workshops to learn alongside their children, or serve as mentors for our youth programs if they have specific expertise to share. We also have a very active parent advisory committee that helps us shape our programs and organize our annual community festivals, ensuring that our organization remains responsive to the needs of the families we serve. For those with busy schedules, even small contributions like sharing our mission on social media or participating in our native plant sales make a significant difference. By fostering a high level of family involvement, we create a strong, connected network of advocates who are committed to creating a sustainable and green future for all our children.
Contact Us
Reach out to us through multiple channels and join our conservation community
We cordially invite you to connect with us at Angel Conservation to learn more about our ongoing work and how you can get involved in our efforts to save the planet. Our main office is located at 53 Remsen St Ste 6, Brooklyn, NY 11201, and we welcome visitors who are interested in seeing our work first-hand or speaking with our staff about our various programs. You can also reach us via email at info@angelco.site for general inquiries, partnership proposals, or specific questions about our youth and adult programs. We maintain an active and engaging online presence where you can stay updated on our latest news, upcoming events, and conservation success stories that show the real-world impact of our collective efforts. Whether you are looking to enroll in a program, volunteer your time, or simply learn more about environmental preservation, we are here to provide the information and support you need to make a meaningful difference in the world today.
Join Us / Work With Us
Build a rewarding career with a team dedicated to environmental excellence
Angel Conservation is always looking for passionate, talented, and qualified individuals to join our professional team and help us drive our mission forward. We offer a variety of rewarding career opportunities for educators, environmental scientists, community organizers, and administrative professionals who share our unwavering commitment to a sustainable and green future. Our team culture is built on a foundation of mutual respect, continuous learning, and a shared passion for the natural world that unites us all in our daily tasks. We provide a supportive and highly collaborative environment where every staff member is encouraged to grow professionally and contribute their unique talents and perspectives to our collective work. Our application process is designed to identify individuals who not only have the necessary technical skills but also embody the warm, professional, and caring approach that defines our organization’s presence in the community. We look forward to hearing from you and potentially welcoming you to our dedicated team of earth-savers.
