The Essence of NewtonSERVES

The following are a couple quotes worthy of sharing because they help to capture the essence of NewtonSERVES, which is having its , at project sites all across Newton. For more information and to sign up to volunteer, please visit the NewtonSERVES website.

Jackie Daoust, past NewtonSERVES Project Leader and coordinator for the Newton Conservators’ seven Spring invasive plant projects taking place throughout May and June:

“The moment I heard that the whole community gets involved in NewtonSERVES, I had to be a part of it. One of the reasons I chose to get involved with the Newton Conservators was to empower people my age, in their 20s, to feel like they have enough education and intelligence to get involved and make a difference. The Day of Service provided the Conservators with an outlet for managing invasive plants in their conservation lands without using herbicides and pesticides. NewtonSERVES helps groups work together who may not have previously done so and it’s one of the only days when we get to be seen by others than our members who already know we’re there.”

Chris Steele, Project Leader for the Centre Street / Rte.  9 Triangle:

“Last year, we started cleaning up and beautifying the traffic island by the onramp to Rt 9 at Centre Street in Newton Highlands. While the area could serve as a real gateway for the community, it had been choked with weeds and debris for years. Through our efforts, the neighbors now look out at a lovely small area of green which – over the coming weeks – will also have color!  Incidentally, my son really got the most out of the project and has insisted that we look for new projects to work on around the City, to get to know his community better.”