The First executive director of Friends of China Camp, Martin Lowenstein, recently discussed the nonprofit organization’s critical work.
He doesn’t just work for Friends of China Camp; he lives it. The California Department of Parks and Recreation threatened to close China Camp State Park in 2012. This sparked a mission to save the park from closure and create new interpretive and educational activities.
He serves as the First Executive Director of the Friends of China Camp nonprofit, and he recently discussed the importance of this committed organization.
About China Camp State Park
China Camp State Park is a natural and historical treasure in California. It covers 1,514 acres of woodlands, salt marsh, and sandy beaches.
The grounds of China Camp State Park were once home to the Coast Miwok people who established villages there. This land is where they hunted, fished, and gathered a variety of shellfish. China Camp State Park serves as an essential part of local history.
Martin Lowenstein added that the park is ideal for citizens to get outside, exercise, learn about local flora and fauna, and make lasting memories. There are 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, 33 tent camping sites, and countless year-round events to enjoy. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset every day.
The Hard Work of Friends of China Camp
These days, the Friends of China Camp does far more than fight to keep China Camp State Park open. The nonprofit organization performs the following tasks and more:
Operating the park and its management since 2012
Working alongside California State parks to reduce park operations costs and help the park thrive every day of the year
Developing park projects and programs for visitors, including cultural, natural, and historical aspects
Holding special programs for senior citizens and at-risk children
Since 2012, Friends of China Camp has grown from less than 50 members to more than 3,000. It partners with other educational, cultural, environmental, and community organizations to improve the livelihood of citizens, wildlife, and the environment.
China Camp State Park requires $500,000 or more dollars to operate every year. The organization constantly seeks financial and volunteer support to keep the park operating successfully for all the local, national, and international visitors who enjoy it.
Friends of China Camp
Lowenstein is the First Executive Director of the organization. He has had a critical impact on the success of Friends of China Camp and China Camp State Park.
He brings numerous years of experience with other successful nonprofit organizations to China Camp. He continuously works to grow community commitment and involvement in the park. Martin Lowenstein encourages anyone interested in China Camp State Park and its rich history and natural beauty to visit in person or online. The website also offers numerous volunteer opportunities and ways to donate.