Foundation History
Children’s Resource Center (CRC) was
founded in 1999 and awarded IRS 501 (c) 3 non-profit
status in 2001. CRC's primary mission is to provide for
the betterment of children, youth and their families by
offering alternative outdoor learning experiences. CRC
dedicates its resources and energies to work with existing
and emerging schools, community-based groups and non-
profit organizations to provide quality facilities, programs
and services.
Ironwood Outdoor Center (IOC) is the initial project for CRC; named after the abundance of Ironwood trees which grow on the property. IOC is an ecologically diverse 84 acre woodland and wetland preserve located on the banks of the Rancocas Creek in Lumberton, NJ. CRC purchased the property from the YMCA (orginally known as the YMCA Camp Worth) in 2000 with the assistance of a NJDEP Green Acres grant, thus saving the site from future development.
Located on the Ironwood property is a 6000 square foot swimming pool and kiddy pool, sensory garden, hiking nature trails, high & low ropes challenge courses, natural grassland meadow, camping, and public access to the south branch Rancocas Creek for canoeing and kayaking. A respectable 241 species of flora and fauna make Ironwood their home.
Ironwood Outdoor Center, Our Mission:
The purpose of Ironwood is two-fold: to offer swimming recreation at a reasonable rate to the community, and by partnering with industry professionals, providing outdoor learning opportunities that are not available through community programs. IOC will give children, families and groups the opportunity to connect with nature, gain knowledge, and challenge themselves, building self- confidence and cultivating positive values. It is our belief that children who at a young age have a positive experience with nature are more likely to become stewards of the environment later in life.
Board of Directors
Ernest Previte, Chairman of the Board
Robert T. Healey
Rev. Joseph Messina
Harry Bell
Officers
Robert T. Healey Jr., Executive Director CRC
Jean Briles, Managing Director