New Pond Farm Education Center
EducationConnecticut, United States11-50 Employees
Founded in 1985 by actress and philanthropist Carmen Mathews, New Pond Farm is an independent, year-round environmental education center set on 102 acres of protected woodlands, wetlands, meadows, and pastures in Fairfield County, CT. From a summer camp for underserved NYC youth, we have grown into a vibrant community resource serving learners of all ages. Each year, over 5,000 students and 1,000 children, adults, seniors and families engage with our farm, property, and programs — forging meaningful, lasting connections with the land. OUR IMPACT We ensure children and families throughout Greater Fairfield County have access to nature-based education that supports: Environmental enrichment classes Summer camps Transportation for school field trips Weekend retreats Partners include Danbury Public Schools, Odyssey Early Learning Center, Capital Prep Harbor School, and many others. Our programs extend into classrooms and across our farm, wetlands, woodlands, and pastures through field trips, camps, in-school visits, and community events. WHY IT MATTERS In today’s world, children, teens, and adults face disconnection from nature and food systems. New Pond Farm nurtures: Environmental literacy Compassion for animals Confidence, curiosity, and resilience Lifelong commitment to sustainable living