John Evangelista has been appointed as the new executive director of Groundwork Elizabeth, a nonprofit organization focused on environmental education and urban quality of life improvement. With over 30 years in landscape design and construction, Evangelista has been involved with Groundwork Elizabeth for more than ten years, previously serving as operations director.
Evangelista began his journey with the organization as a volunteer, participating in agricultural demonstrations at city schools. His efforts have led to the establishment of over 200 community gardens in the city and ensured that all schools in Elizabeth have gardens for educational purposes.
In his new role, Evangelista aims to enhance youth development, urban agriculture, and create a "climate-safe" environment in Elizabeth. The organization collaborates with the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth and Rutgers University to monitor urban air quality. Under Evangelista's leadership, they have developed New Jersey's largest private air monitoring network.
He is also committed to reforesting urban areas through the "micro forest" concept, which educates communities about botany and biodiversity. Groundwork Elizabeth's initiatives include youth development programs, community greenhouses, Micro Farm projects, air quality work, and agriculture efforts that promote sustainability.
“Watching youth join the Green Team or Mayor’s youth council and seeing them firsthand develop a passion for the environment and healthier eating is mind-blowing,” said Evangelista. “Then they take that knowledge home and inspire their families and friends. Seeing that tangible change and breaking through to families is really the core of what we try to accomplish.”
Mayor Chris J. Bollwage praised Evangelista’s dedication: “As the new executive director of Groundwork Elizabeth, John will continue to build on the organization’s mission to improve local green spaces and a more sustainable future for all residents,” he stated.
Evangelista takes over from Jonathan Phillips who led Groundwork Elizabeth from 2003–2024. Phillips will remain involved as an emeritus advisor.
Groundwork Elizabeth was founded in 2003 as a nonprofit aiming to foster healthy communities by promoting environmental regeneration through community partnerships.
