Kathleen M. Lynch-van de Sande Fund

The Kathleen M. Lynch-van de Sande Fund was established in memory of Ms. Lynch-van de Sande, a New Jersey Pinelands Commission Environmental Specialist who died in a car accident in June 1989.

The Pinelands Commission, the state agency that oversees land-use, development and the protection of resources in the Pinelands, administers the Katie Fund.

All proceeds from the Fund are dedicated to the support of reforestation and vegetation activities in the New Jersey Pinelands and to further educational programs and projects that enhance the understanding of the Pinelands National Reserve. Over the years, thousands of dollars have been dedicated to the fund’s mission. To date, three arboretums were funded at area schools and over 35 scholarships were awarded to a senior majoring in the environmental field from each high school in the Pinelands. In 2022, the fund covered costs for the design and installation of a 340-square foot rain garden at Commission's headquarters in Pemberton Township. The garden features 100% native Pinelands plants, and it captures and filters stormwater generated by the Commission's main office building while providing habitat for wildlife and helping to mitigate climate change impacts such as flooding. 

The Commission welcomes contributions from individuals, groups and organizations. Honorary and memorial contributions are appropriately acknowledged.

To donate directly to the fund, please click here. To donate to the fund in honor or memory of someone, please click here.