About

The primary mission of the Newtown Earth Day Festival is to foster education and awareness of environmental stewardship through project participation and collaboration with local associations. Held annually in April, this community event brings together schools, municipal and charitable organizations, sustainable vendors, and non-profits, in a synergistic celebration of good deeds for our space on the planet.

View from Castle Hill overlooking field, steeples, and American flag.Organized by various members of our community, the festival provides a forum for residents of all ages to become more engaged in the collective consciousness and responsibility we owe to the health of Newtown – and to our region’s soil, air, and water.

To help make a difference, a portion of all monies collected funds a “green” scholarship through the Newtown Scholarship Association for Newtown High School graduates interested in environmental/ecological studies. Over the last several years, we have raised over $8,000 dollars and have been fortunate to be able to support several students.  Your involvement can help us grow this.

Interested in Becoming Involved? Please Reach Out!

Newtown Earth Day’s 2024 Committee Members

President & Chairman
Dan Holmes –  dan@holmesfinegardens.com

Vice President
Bill Buchler –  buchlerbill@gmail.com

Secretary
Rob Kaiser –  rob@ihomano.com

Treasurer
Brad Paynter –  bradzilla@gmail.com

Director
Aaron Coopersmith – aaroncoop@gmail.com

Members At Large
Alex Rankin – alexrankin72@gmail.com
Valerie Hart – tbd
Paul Lundquist – tbd
Andy Ashla – tbd

Lions Club “Lose the Litter”
Glenn Nanavaty – gnanavaty@nndcpa.com

Chairmen Emeritus
Terrence Ford – tford1966@gmail.com
Guy Peterson – guy.peterson@newtownforestassociation.org

DID YOU KNOW?
Newtown is lucky to have several organizations that work year round to preserve our environment:

  • Newtown’s Sustainable Energy Commission is responsible for the Reed Intermediate School Solar Panel project.
  • The Newtown Forest Association, established in 1924, is the oldest private land trust in Connecticut. They are dedicated to accumulating and preserving open space and resources for public enjoyment within Newtown.
  • The Pootatuck Watershed Association‘s mission is clear: Clean and abundant water for Newtown’s future. The association promotes this goal through water sampling, educational programs, and habitat restoration.
  • The Transition Network: a global initiative that supports a community-led process to help neighborhoods become stronger and happier. Reach out to bhtoomey@yahoo.com to get involved in the Newtown chapter.