About

About Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy (WPSAC)

Since 2012, the Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy has worked diligently to revitalize Weequahic Park and strengthen the surrounding South Ward community. Our progress is built on sweat equity, partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to community service — often relying on volunteers, seasonal staff, and resource-sharing before financial support becomes available.

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WPSAC has collaborated with Essex County and numerous community partners to transform the park into an active, safe, and welcoming space for residents and families. Our impact is measured not just by programs and projects, but by thousands of hands-on hours invested directly into park stewardship, recreation, and community-building.

Selected Accomplishments

• Environmental Stewardship and Beautification

  • Contributed over 100,000 volunteer hours cleaning and restoring Weequahic Park (2012–present).

  • Weekly park cleanups to combat illegal dumping and maintain park quality.

  • Planted grass seed and cultivated parkland annually since 2012.

  • Created the Weequahic Park Memorial Garden featuring over 10,000 tulips.

  • Partnered with Panasonic to expand Electronic Waste Recycling Days to serve South Newark.

• Youth and Community Sports Development

  • Founded the first NFL FLAG Football League in Newark, NJ, and launched Girls Flag Football initiatives.

  • Created a youth tennis program for children ages 5–17.

  • Introduced NBA Jr. Basketball programming to Weequahic Park.

  • Hosted youth soccer activities and continue to advocate for soccer growth.

  • Improved youth baseball programming with Major League Baseball training skills and donated equipment.

  • Formed NFL FLAG Travel Teams to provide broader competitive exposure.

• Education and Workforce Exposure

  • Partnered with aerospace industry leaders to introduce youth to aviation and airport careers.

  • Supported Weequahic High School in securing a practice facility and access to equipment (2023).

  • Hosted youth tournaments, clinics, and leadership development events.

  • Advocated for CPR education following the tragic loss of a community youth.

• Park Programming and Recreation

  • Administered Essex County Summer Camps annually since 2014.

  • Supported and promoted the First Tee Golf Program (2012–present).

  • Co-created adventure-themed playgrounds with integrated entertainment and educational resources.

  • Partnered with Essex County and "Hook a Kid on Fishing" to introduce youth to outdoor fishing activities.

  • Reinstated the annual fireworks displays at Weequahic Park.

  • Hosted the Annual Kite Festival for 13 consecutive years.

• Community Resource Expansion

  • Developed the "POP a Truck" food distribution method during COVID-19, later assisting Newark’s partnership with Table to Table.

  • Provided support for the Essex County Senior Nutrition Program by delivering meals and offering recreational events for seniors.

  • Advocated for affordable housing access, referring families to Essex County CEAS partners.

  • Supported youth crime intervention initiatives through recreation and mentorship opportunities.

• Partnerships and Advocacy

  • Assisted Universoul Circus with promotion and event security at Weequahic Park.

  • Collaborated with NY/NJ Port Authority for the Part 150 Environmental Study and PATH Train Extension discussions.

  • Partnered with NJIT and local residents to incorporate community input into the Airport City Newark vision plan for the next 50 years.

  • Advocated for capital improvements, environmental projects, and access to recreational opportunities across the South Ward.

Closing Note

The Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy continues to be a proud, resident-led steward of Weequahic Park — working hand-in-hand with the community to create a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable space for generations to come.