Kevin Murphy, Buffalo market president at Bank of America, credited the conservancy’s efforts at creating healthy neighborhoods in the City of Buffalo.
“Their work is vitally important in preserving green space for the more than one million people who visit and use the historic, award-winning Olmsted Park System annually for recreation, relaxation and rejuvenation,” he said.
Stephanie Crockatt, executive director, said the initiative follows 15 years of support by the bank.
“Their partnership has sparked creativity and innovation with methods such as the new bus wrap to raise awareness and park appreciation in the community,” she said. “Their contributions to the success of our non-profit, our workforce, and our park system have all been exemplary – it’s a complete package of support and it is deeply appreciated.”
Crockatt told Business First the initiative brings We Care in as a sponsor for the first time, part of a growing roster of corporate groups working with the parks. Mentholatum is now a sponsor for the Japanese Gardens at Delaware Park, while Lawley is sponsoring the seasonal worker program. And of course Chase Bank continues as a sponsor for its gala and the Corporate Challenge, donating up to $15,000 to help with clean-up, overtime and maintenance costs after the race.
Another corporate partnership boosting awareness: Lockhouse Distillery is using the blossoms from the cherry trees to make its cherry-infused gin, making a donation for every bottle sold — and helping to clean up the mess when the trees lose their petals.
The wrapped bus will serve as a mobile billboard for the parks, driving around town for the company’s regular route transporting individuals with disabilities in the community. It will also be available for the parks, Crockatt said.
“We’re using it for a tour next week, so we can contract with them and use it when we need it too,” she said.
