The offical presentation of the generous donation of $1 million to the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation. Accepting the check above, from left to right, are;
John McQuaid, Chairman, Nissequogue River State Park Foundation
Wayne Horsely, Regional Director, Long Island, NYS Parks Dept.
Charlie Reichert, Chairman, IGA Supermarkets
Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta
Brian Foley, Assistant Regional Director, NYS Parks Dept.
Press Release
Nissequogue River State Park Foundation
November 2, 2018
It is with great pleasure and gratitude that we announce the largest private donation ever made to the Nissequogue River State Park. The Charles and Helen Reichert Family Foundation have agreed to donate $1 million over 5 years towards the renovation of the park’s Visitors Center. This donation was made in support of the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s mission to enhance and beautify the park.
New York State Parks issued a request for proposals (RFP) earlier this year to begin the building’s restoration. Renovations will consist of a new roof, HVAC system, and elevator as well as restoration of the windows, cupola and interior spaces, including: a new conference room, classroom, park displays, bathrooms and offices. Work will continue through 2019 and conclude in 2020.
Charles and Helen Reichert, owners of IGA Fort Salonga and Larkfield Supermarkets, have been the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s largest contributor since its inception in 2008. Their support has allowed the foundation to hold numerous events at the park, including its popular: Sunset Run, Turkey Trot and Regatta on the River. Their philanthropy has not only helped improve this park, but includes generous gifts to Huntington Hospital, the Vanderbilt Planetarium and numerous youth and civic organizations. Their ongoing efforts to enrich the lives of people across Long Island are unprecedented.
John McQuaid, Chairman of the Foundation, stated; “We could not be more thankful for Charles’ and Helen’s generous support and commitment to this park, our community and its residents. We are hopeful that more public-private partnerships, such as the one we’re celebrating here today, will help transform this former state hospital into an active state park that meets the recreational and entertainment needs of our residents.”
Please contact the NRSP Foundation at 516-437-4000 or info@ourstatepark.com with questions.
Nissequogue River State Park Foundation
