Dear Friend,

 

For 23 years, I’ve had the privilege of caring for Briar Bush’s 12 acres, a rare urban refuge where we help nature take its best course. It is a sanctuary for over 450 species and a vital space for human healing; such spaces are proven to reduce stress and restore focus.

 

I have witnessed incredible transformations: the pond’s restoration, the birth of our Nature
Playscape, and the managed growth of our forest. However, some changes have been harder. We are losing ash, oak, hemlock, and beech trees to disease, while violent storms and a growing deer
population challenge the forest's ability to regenerate.

 

But where the canopy opens, we plant.

 

In 2025, we planted over 300 trees—the most in our history. Wellness programs that connect health to our forest are in the works for this coming year. Our Strategic Plan also focuses on restoring our staff capacity.

 

Your gift today supports Briar Bush through three pillars of restoration in our new Strategic Plan:

 

· Land: Increasing our budget to plant and protect a native forest.

· Self: Launching wellness programs that use nature as a place for healing.

· Capacity: Investing in the key staff who make this mission possible.

 

Whether it’s a child’s muddy discovery in the Playscape or a quiet moment of peace on our trails,
Briar Bush is a gift we give to one another. Help us make these next three years our most restorative yet.

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With gratitude,

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Mark Fallon, Director