On a beautiful Tuesday evening in May, NeighborSpace hosted our first house party since before the start of the pandemic. Over 40 attendees gathered in the backyard of Betsy & Carlton Sexton, longtime friends of NeighborSpace, who graciously offered their home and food for the event. It was gratifying to see a wide variety of NeighborSpace supporters, from a state delegate and county councilmen to park stewards and neighborhood members, gathering together to discuss the importance and effects of open green space in our local communities.
NeighborSpace Board member Kathy Martin set the tone with a short overview of NeighborSpace’s work and vision. Following a few words from Klaus Philipsen, Board President, and Phyllis Joris, Executive Director, we were fortunate to be able to hear from several of NeighborSpace’s Stewardship Partners. Aaron Barnett, NeighborSpace Board member and President of Powhatan Farms Improvement Association, shared how an “eyesore” in his community has been transformed into a place for neighbors to walk, play, and gather. Nancy Goldring, new NeighborSpace Board member and President of Northeast Towson Improvement Association, told the story of how she became involved with NeighborSpace after purchasing the home right next door to the green space that is now named after her grandmother: Adelaide Bentley Park. Rosa Griffin, President of Gwynn Oak Community Association, shared how severe seasonal allergies as a child made her weary of the outdoors but that she now volunteers with NeighborSpace to steward Carroll Watkins Park, even planting and weeding at times! Last but not least, Kerri Lastner of Graystone Community Association told the powerful story of how Graystone Community Open Space, which neighbors refer to as “the lot” or “the neighborhood’s living room”, was vital in bringing neighbors together during the pandemic and how it continues to build community.
NeighborSpace would like to thank everyone who attended this event, and every one of our supporters, for your time, your attention, and your voice. We appreciate the tremendous effort involved in creating and maintaining open spaces in Baltimore County, and we could not do this work without you. Thank you!