Thank you and Farewell: a letter from executive director Sarah Perry

It is with bittersweet feelings that I announce that I will be stepping down from my position as Executive Director of Downtown Greens in September of this year. Downtown Greens has always been much more than just a job for me, it has been my passion. The people and mission will remain a permanent and very cherished part of my life.
It’s been such a joy to witness the positive effects of youth and adult programming thanks to our talented educators bringing people closer to nature and the food that they eat. At its base, though, the garden is a community space and respite, a forever-protected urban oasis for all to enjoy. One seven-year-old neighbor who I met when I first arrived on the job, reminisced, 10 years later,  “I could never forget the one place where I always felt comfortable and free.”
I am excited for the future of Downtown Greens.   I will forever be grateful for the many volunteers who helped and the 520 donors who came together, even when many thought we couldn’t do it, to raise the capital needed to secure Downtown Greens’ new 56-acre parcel of land in the City of Fredericksburg. Saving the land from development was a forever accomplishment that will endure for generations to come. The newly acquired land creates a strong foundation into which the organization can grow its mission and vision. 
I believe deeply in this organization and its mission. I am confident that the next person who steps into this role will come in with fresh ideas and energy and will be able to take DTG to the next level. 
​It was an honor to serve as executive director for the past 10 years. I’m proud of how far we’ve come and I’m excited to see what’s next. Thank you to the staff, board of directors-past and present, volunteers, donors, grantors, neighbors and children for support, guidance, company, fun and friendship.

With Gratitude,
Sarah Perry

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