On August 29, a group of high school students from Elizabeth, New Jersey, ages 16 to 18, prepared to say farewell to Ellen Kalish and Ravensbeard Wildlife Center after three memorable days of hard work, outdoor adventure, and discovery. What began as a landscaping project became an immersive experience in the natural world of the Hudson Valley—one that would leave a lasting impression on both the students and their hosts.
The group of 20 students and four chaperones represented Groundwork Elizabeth, a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth development, climate resilience, healthy communities, urban agriculture, and the conservation of local waterways, trails, and parks. This marked the second consecutive year that Groundwork Elizabeth students had visited Ravensbeard. The partnership has a special family connection: Adrienne Miller-Kubicz, Groundwork Elizabeth’s Manager of Agricultural Experiences, is Ellen’s sister.
As part of a paid summer employment program, the students participate in community service projects that provide valuable work experience while making a positive impact. At Ravensbeard, their mission was twofold: to help improve the wildlife center's grounds and to gain a deeper appreciation of ecology, conservation, and the wildlife that shares our environment.
Under Ellen’s guidance, the students rolled up their sleeves and tackled several ambitious landscaping projects. They created a circular trail connecting to the creek, spread wood chips around the bird enclosures, revitalized the front yard with native plants, and built a fire pit. Along the way, they learned about native and invasive plant species, insects, local ecosystems, and the fascinating world of raptors.
But the experience extended well beyond the work itself.
The students pitched 15 tents in Ravensbeard’s backyard, prepared their own meals, and gathered around the fire pit they had built. As darkness settled over the property, they shared stories, enjoyed one another’s company, and listened to the unfamiliar sounds of the nighttime forest. For many, it was an opportunity to experience nature in ways rarely encountered in their urban surroundings.
Perhaps the most meaningful moments came through their encounters with Ravensbeard’s resident birds and other wildlife.
One student admitted that she had initially been afraid of birds, having had little opportunity to interact with them. By the end of her visit, that fear had given way to wonder. She was captivated by the diversity of species, the magnificence of hawks and owls, and the intricate balance between predator and prey that sustains the natural world. The experience left an indelible impression on her, and she expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity.
For Ellen, witnessing the students’ curiosity, enthusiasm, and growing appreciation for wildlife was equally inspiring. Their excitement served as a powerful reminder of why environmental education is such an important part of Ravensbeard’s mission.
A Partnership That Benefits Everyone
Our collaboration with Groundwork Elizabeth demonstrates what can happen when organizations with complementary missions come together. The students contributed their time, energy, and hard work to improve Ravensbeard’s facilities, while Ravensbeard offered them an opportunity to connect with nature, discover the importance of conservation, and develop a deeper understanding of the wildlife around them.
It was a rewarding exchange of knowledge, effort, and inspiration.
We are deeply grateful to Groundwork Elizabeth, its dedicated staff, and these remarkable young people for their contributions. We hope this partnership will continue to grow and inspire similar collaborations with other nonprofit and community organizations.
After all, when we work together, we do more than help one another—we help build a community that cares for both people and the natural world we share.
