Future of Mosholu Parkland (FOMP) Program Overview
Future of Mosholu Parkland (FOMP) is more than a community group that picks up litter and cares for trees. We are a driving force for stewardship, sustainability, community empowerment, and advocacy in the Bedford Park and Norwood Bronx neighborhoods. Through our diverse programs, we address environmental justice, public health, cultural engagement, youth development, and community resilience—all essential to preserving Mosholu Parkland and the well-being of those who live and work nearby.
Our programs provide vital opportunities for residents to engage with nature, grow food, and adopt more sustainable lifestyles—especially in an urban environment dominated by concrete. While most of our programs are free, some require a value-based fee to sustain their impact. More importantly, all of our initiatives are designed to serve the entire community, ensuring long-term benefits for current and future generations.
Environmental Justice & Community Well-Being
Mosholu Parkway is not just a green space—it is also a corridor impacted by high volumes of commuter traffic. Pollution from vehicles poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. Children are at increased risk of asthma, impaired lung function, and other respiratory diseases. Prolonged exposure has also been linked to cardiovascular disease and dementia. (“Living near highways and air pollution,” 2021)
At the same time, rapid housing development in Bedford Park and Norwood continues to strain essential infrastructure, from overcrowded schools to inadequate green spaces. The Mosholu Library, for example, is too small to serve the growing population. Without dedicated efforts to balance urban growth with environmental protection, residents will face diminishing access to clean air, water, and the resources needed to foster a sustainable, healthy community.
True environmental justice means shifting decision-making power back to historically marginalized communities—those disproportionately affected by environmental racism, economic inequality, and systemic neglect. FOMP actively works to reclaim and revitalize community spaces, ensuring that residents have a voice in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
Our Mission in Action: The Four Pillars of FOMP
FOMP’s programs are built upon four key pillars that intersect across all our initiatives:
- Education – Environmental literacy, sustainability practices, and hands-on learning opportunities for all ages.
- Health & Wellness – Access to green spaces, fresh food, and activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
- Community Strengthening & Cultural Engagement – Bringing neighbors together through shared experiences, local advocacy, and cultural programming.
- Youth Development & the Arts – Providing young people with creative outlets, leadership opportunities, and a deeper connection to their environment.
Sustaining Our Impact: How You Can Help
The success and longevity of our programs depend on the support of the community. While we operate largely through volunteer efforts, ongoing financial contributions are essential to expanding our reach and maintaining our impact. A sustainable future for Mosholu Parkland is possible when community members invest in it—whether through participation, advocacy, or recurring monthly donations. Your support allows us to continue building a healthier, greener, and more resilient neighborhood for everyone.
Join us in shaping the future of Mosholu Parkland—together.