A Note from the President of Beczak's Board

Dear friend,

When I was a child, a local community group introduced me to the natural world and it changed my life. That’s why I am so passionate about Beczak Environmental Education Center—and why I am writing to you today to encourage you to make a donation to this thriving community treasure.

I grew up in the Bronx and my parents and family were not the outdoors type.  A local organization much like Beczak offered me the chance to spend overnights in the woods, learn how to canoe and make a fire outdoors.  It ignited my lifelong love of nature, a curiosity to learn more and an enthusiasm to share this knowledge—qualities I have passed on to my own children. 

Getting children into the outdoors is the most reliable way to grow ecologically conscious adults. We know it intuitively; and it’s the conclusion of mountains of research.  

Beczak Environmental Education Center actively engages people of all ages in the natural world and develops environmental advocates of the future. Its high quality River Exploration programs are attended by schools throughout Westchester County and New York City. In addition, Beczak's dedicated staff has developed these popular river-related programs that serve many ages and interests:
  • River Explorers - Beczak's weekend programs for children ages 5 - 12
  • RiverTalks - Smart conversations about the Hudson River Valley
  • Urban H2O - Rockin' roots concerts on the banks of the Hudson
  • and NEW! L. L Bean Great Outdoors Club - making the outdoors part of teenagers lives
Your donation would allow Beczak to offer more hands-on programs to those who cannot afford to pay for it—both individuals and local school districts. Beczak is part of the solution for improving the education of our young people.  Its educators provide outdoor activities that incorporate science and math, helping children understand applications in the real world and, most importantly, getting young people excited about learning. 

Please make a contribution to Beczak Environmental Education Center. You can donate online right now here. 


If you wish to donate in honor of environmentally conscious friends and relatives, use this Gift Giving Form.  It’s the greenest of gifts and a breath of fresh air from the usual shopping rush!

Best wishes for the coming holidays,






Rochelle Odesser
President of the Board
Beczak Environmental Education Center
Where You Learn to Love Your River!