Our Mission

Newark City Parks Foundation, Inc. (NCPF) a public-private partnership created by Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the Newark Municipal City Council in April 2021 to manage, maintain, program, and raise funds for Newark’s Downtown Parks including the historic Harriet Tubman Square, Lincoln Park, Military Park, Mulberry Commons, and Riverfront Park.

The organization is committed to ensuring that all five of Newark’s downtown parks are vibrant and provide free, outdoor public programs that are inclusive for all Newark residents, workers, and visitors. NCPF works closely with the City of Newark, anchor stakeholders situated around Newark’s parks, local non-profits, and residents who are committed to making the downtown parks world-class public spaces.

Since its creation in 2021, NCPF has consistently produced over 200 annual programs in the areas of arts & culture, health & wellness, on water activities, and environmental education that attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Newark City Parks Foundation:
Five Pillars of Commitment

The Newark City Parks Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the community through its core principles, which focus on inclusivity, environmental justice, historical significance, public art, and community engagement. Below are the five pillars that guide our mission:

Through these pillars, the Newark City Parks Foundation is dedicated to creating a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable urban environment that benefits all residents and celebrates the rich history and culture of Newark.

1. Programming:
Free, High Quality, Accessible Activities

We prioritize the development of diverse programming that is free and accessible to all members of the community. Our initiatives provide enriching experiences that encourage engagement, education, and enjoyment of our park spaces. Through workshops, events, and recreational activities, we ensure that everyone can participate and benefit from what we offer.

2. Environmental Justice: Upholding and Maintaining Public Spaces

We advocate for the protection and enhancement of public green spaces, recognizing them as vital to the community’s well-being. Our commitment to environmental justice involves not only preserving these areas but also creating a sense of shared responsibility for their upkeep. This ensures that all residents have the right to clean, safe, and accessible parks that reflect the community's needs and values.

3. Promoting Newark as a Leader in Public Space Innovation

We position Newark as a pioneering city in the use and design of public spaces. The foundation recognizes the historical significance of several areas, particularly those related to the Underground Railroad, and strives to celebrate and honor this heritage. By promoting these unique features, we enhance the city's attractiveness and cultural relevance, making Newark a model for urban innovation.

4. Public Art: Transforming Spaces into Accessible Art Venues

5.Building Stewardship: Encouraging Community Ownership of Land

We are committed to dismantling barriers that prevent community members from feeling ownership of local green spaces. By involving residents in the stewardship of these areas, we cultivate pride and responsibility toward their preservation. Additionally, we recognize that parks play a vital role in the local economy, and we strive to support this by allocating 86% of our budget to Newark-based artists and businesses, ensuring that our initiatives contribute to the community's economic vitality.