The Roger Williams Park Conservancy serves as a steward for the long-term sustainability of Roger Williams Park and its enjoyment by the community.
Established in 2016 as part of the Rhode Island Foundation’s Centennial historic investment in the park, the Conservancy is a critical strategic non-profit partner with the City of Providence and the Providence Parks Department to sustain, enhance, and activate the Park. The Conservancy’s work is based on the belief that citizen leadership and private philanthropy are vital for ensuring that the Park and its essential purpose endure for future generations.
Our mission is to sustain and enhance Roger Williams Park as a vibrant and restorative public space for all. We envision a Roger Williams Park that is an exceptional local and regional asset, has an excellent reputation for diverse and engaging visitor experiences, and enjoys broad support and shared responsibility for its enduring legacy.
Our recent strategic plan is available to download and read here.
What is a Conservancy?
Park Conservancies are non-profit organizations with the mission of funding and supporting park restoration, programming, engagement and marketing. Funded by philanthropic donations from individuals, foundations, and businesses and by grants, some conservancies may also receive public funding or concession funding.
Some park conservancies, such as the Central Park Conservancy in New York, or the Emerald Necklace Conservancy in Boston work on a specific park or network of parks. Other conservancies work city-wide or nationally, such as the Seattle Parks Foundation or the Trust for Public Land.