Local Corporate Volunteers Build Garden for YMCA’s Blake Children’s Center
Press Release: Time Sensitive

CEDAR KNOLLS, N.J. - An energetic group of volunteers from Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation (NPC) braved the rain to build a garden at the Greater Morristown YMCA’s Blake Children’s Center. Employees from Novartis’ corporate headquarters (East Hanover, N.J.) participated as part of the company’s annual Community Partnership Day. The Blake Center provides quality care and preschool for children ages six weeks to five years.

The team of volunteers did everything from constructing the garden’s wood framework to hauling thousands of pounds of soil to planting vegetable seedlings. The result was a large garden in which the children can learn about growing plants and vegetables, enhancing their science and healthy eating curriculum. As part of its Community Partnership Day, NPC also made a donation to the project, which was used to purchase numerous plants including fresh lavender, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, string beans, Gerber daisies and more. YMCA volunteer Jim Casola coordinated the project and garden layout for the volunteers.

“Investing in the communities where we live and work is a defining part of the culture and fabric of our company,” said Kevin Rigby, Vice President and US Country Head of Public Affairs at Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. “This annual day of volunteerism gives our employee teams an opportunity to join hands in service with our outstanding nonprofit partners to help make a positive, long-lasting difference in people’s lives.”

The Richard F. Blake Children’s Center is a NAEYC accredited early childhood program, a distinction held by only seven percent of child care centers in the United States.

Founded in 1874, The Greater Morristown YMCA is a non-profit organization focused on strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We engage all people – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve health and well-being and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors.