About Us
We’re Friends of Cedarvale, a small not-for-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving Cedarvale Park and Ravine. Since 2012, we’ve come together to organize park cleanups, remove invasive species, host guided nature walks, and collaborate on initiatives that protect and keep this special place thriving.Today, Friends of Cedarvale is run by a volunteer Steering Committee of five passionate members: John Cummings, Ivor Simmons, Valentina Gastaldo, Rachel Gottesman, and Aubrey Spring.Our group also works closely with organizations interested in caring for the park, ravine, and the neighbourhood such as Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation, Councillor Josh Matlow’s office, Toronto Nature Stewards, Green Neighbours Network and Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests.
📌 Read about how we started and where we’re headed.
Our Goals
As neighbours and volunteers, we’re driven by a shared mission to protect and improve Cedarvale Park and Ravine. By working together, we hope to improve the park and ravine’s ecological health and ensure it remains a thriving space for both the community and the environment.Here’s how we’re making that happen:Engage in stewardship activities such as planting native species, removing invasive ones, and organizing regular group litter cleanups to support a balanced and sustainable ecosystem.Increase public awareness of the park and ravine’s rich biodiversity by collaborating with ecology experts and nature enthusiasts to host guided walks and share engaging, educational blog posts.Work collaboratively with organizations, community groups, and parkgoers to ensure the long-term care and preservation of Cedarvale Park and Ravine.As a small organization, we are deeply committed to community building, recognizing that nature brings us together and strengthens our connections. Our mission is to care for the environment that cares for us, ensuring Cedarvale Park and Ravine remains a space of beauty and well-being for everyone to enjoy.
Land Acknowledgment
We want to acknowledge that Cedarvale Park and Ravine is located on the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples. This land is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit.As stewards of this space, we recognize the enduring history and contributions of Indigenous peoples to this land. We are committed to highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Cedarvale Park and Ravine while actively working to dismantle colonial practices in our efforts. Through education, collaboration, and care for the land, we strive to honor its past and protect its future.With love,
Friends of Cedarvale
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