The Women’s Committee raises $10 million of the Conservancy’s $85 million annual budget, and has contributed over $185 million to date. Notable successes have included raising funds for the reconstruction of the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, the renovation of Safari Playground (twice), the recreation of the Urns at Bow Bridge, and most recently, the future restoration of Conservatory Garden.
The Committee is responsible for the management of many Park-wide programs, including Adopt-A-Bench, Conservancy Docents, Olmsted Visionaries planned giving program, Perimeter Association, Playground Partners, Tree Trust, and Tulips & Daffodils.
This dynamic collective was founded in 1983 by four women with a passion for preserving and beautifying Central Park. Now with a membership of 1,000, their programs enable anyone to make a personal investment in the Park. The Women’s Committee is governed by its own Board of Directors, led by President Yesim Philip, who was elected for a two-year term in June of 2020.
Ways to Get Involved
Join this dynamic group of women who are passionate about the Park and making a lasting impact on the well-being of its millions of visitors.
Designed for families with children ages 10 and under, Playground Partners support the ongoing maintenance and care of Central Park’s 21 playgrounds.
The Tree Trust is an endowment for the care of Central Park’s 18,000 trees. Mature tree donations are honored with a paving stone along the Mall.
Help maintain the Park’s 9,000 benches and their surrounding landscapes. Each adopted bench features a custom plaque with a message of the donor’s choosing.
Flower donations bring generosity to life with seasonal blooms in the Park. The Conservancy will plant either daffodils or tulips to honor or memorialize a loved one.
Preserve the place where the Park meets metropolis. The Perimeter Association cares for Central Park’s six-mile perimeter: the sidewalk between the Park wall and street curb.
Women's Committee Events
May 06 2020
Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon
Conservatory Garden
The Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon is the signature event of the Women’s Committee, and is the premier luncheon in New York City. This invitation-only event raises over $4 million and honors some of the Park’s biggest supporters. Become a Women’s Committee Member at the Patron level or above to receive an invitation.
May 20 2020
Playground Partners Annual Family Party
Heckscher Playground
The Annual Family Party raises dedicated funds for the Playground Partners. This family-friendly fundraiser takes place in late spring at the famous Heckscher Playground, and features fun for all ages — from music to magic.
Oct 19 2020
Women's Committee Fall Luncheon
Held annually at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the Fall Luncheon is a festive event that raises funds for the general operations of the Park. Become a Women’s Committee member at the sustainer level and above to receive an invitation.