Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens Receives $250,000 Grant from Daniel E. Offutt III Charitable Trust

Stamford, CT – The Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens announced that it has received a generous grant of $250,000 from the Daniel E. Offutt III Charitable Trust. The gift will be used to fund scholarships for local children in need, enabling them to attend Bartlett programs, including the Bartlett Summer Nature Camp. It will also support the Bartlett’s high school and college internship programs.

The goal of this initiative is to help ensure that all school-aged children, regardless of their financial circumstances, are given meaningful access to nature. This is not always possible, particularly for those who live in urban areas. Quality time in nature not only benefits a child’s physical and mental health, but it also teaches them to become lifelong stewards of the environment.

“This scholarship fund cements our commitment to educate all citizens, adults and children, in the City of Stamford and beyond about nature, botanical education, environmental stewardship, and wildlife habitats”, said Jane von Trapp, CEO of the Bartlett Arboretum. “We are indebted to Dick Orenstein, trustee of the Daniel E. Offutt III Charitable Trust, for the opportunity to fulfill our mission and Mr. Offutt’s vision.”

Dick Orenstein added, “Dan was always interested in educating youngsters in farming and growing.  Bartlett’s program falls right into that interest, and therefore it’s in line with Dan’s wishes.”

Born in Oakland, Maryland, Mr. Daniel E. Offutt III was educated at the University of Maryland and received an M.B.A. from Columbia University. Offutt resided in Weston, Connecticut for more than 30 years and passed away in 2016. Those who knew him would remember him as a traveler, sailor, metal sculptor, wood worker, fixer of anything, collector of everything, lover of projects, stock market investor, and a good friend. Offutt wanted his legacy and philanthropy to bring future benefits to young people and those in our local community.

To learn more about the Bartlett Arboretum’s Summer Nature Camp, Internship programs and other initiatives, please visit the Bartlett website: www.bartlettarboretum.org