Grant Request Westchester Parks Foundation
Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form
Organization Name: Westchester Parks Foundation
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 104 Smith Avenue
City: Mount Kisco
State: New York
Postal Code: 10549
Main Phone: (914) 231-4600
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.thewpf.org/
Employer ID Number: 13-2937499
Organization Tax Status: 501c3 nonprofit
Proposal Information
Today’s Date: 03/26/2025
Requested Amount: $10,000
Project Title: Life Changing Experiences for the Most Vulnerable Children: Camp Morty Operational Support
Project Description:
Since 2006, the Westchester Parks Foundation’s (WPF) Camp Morty has provided a traditional residential summer camp experience annually for up to 660 children aged 8-17 in Westchester County, New York, who are receiving services from the Department of Social Services (WCDSS). In 2024, over 180 campers received child welfare services, including foster care, child protective services, and homeless shelter support, while more than 400 campers received family investment support such as food assistance, childcare subsidies, and safety net assistance. Many of these campers have experienced trauma such as exposure to violence, abuse, mental health challenges, or substance use disorders.
Camp Morty offers three distinct programs designed to provide age-appropriate experiences and support campers as they grow:
– Junior Camp (Ages 8-12): A one-week residential program designed to engage young campers in fun activities that foster creativity, teamwork, and confidence
– Merriwood Teen Empowerment Program (Ages 13-15): A two-week residential experience focused on leadership development, personal growth, and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards
– Counselors-in-Training (Ages 16-17): A three-week leadership program for former Camp Morty campers looking to take the next step in their camp journey as counselors
Camp Morty provides a variety of activities designed to promote growth, skills-building, and personal development. Campers participate in traditional summer camp activities, including swimming, arts & crafts, sports, STEAM, ropes challenge course, performing arts, and more. We also offer behavior and stress management workshops, boundary setting lessons, and communication skills. The program creates lifelong connections, builds community, and demonstrates trust. It provides a space for children separated by the foster system to re-connect with their siblings as well as provides an important break for caregivers/guardians so they can be their best version upon the child’s return from camp.
Total Project Budget: $945,811
Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Westchester County Department of Social Services: $843,930 (committed)
Project Duration: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026
Geographical Area Served: Our campers primarily come from Yonkers, Peekskill, Mount Vernon, White Plains, and New Rochelle (Westchester County, NY). The park is located in North Salem, NY.
Age Group To Be Served: 8-17 years old
Contact Information
Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms
Contact First Name: Nancy
Contact Last Name: Patota
Contact Title: Director of Development
Contact Phone: 914-821-5872
Contact Email: nancy@thewpf.org