Welcome TPL’s newest member Katie Lienert, our Part-Time Community Outreach Coordinator in New York:

Hi there, reader!

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve recently started a new chapter as the Community Outreach Coordinator at Trust for Public Land! In this role, I’ll be connecting with schools and local communities across New York to support the creation and care of vibrant green spaces that truly reflect the voices and needs of the people who use them.

Whether it’s transforming a schoolyard into a welcoming playground or advocating for veggies in our schools raised beds, I’m here to listen, uplift community ideas, and help make our neighborhoods greener, healthier, and more resilient.

A little about me: I’ve always been passionate about equitable access to parks, public space, and fresh food. Values that were central to my work as a Market Manager at GrowNYC. I believe everyone deserves a place to gather, play, breathe fresh air, and feel connected to nature, no matter their zip code.

Outside of work, you’ll probably catch me biking through Brooklyn, flowing through a yoga class (still working on that crow pose!), or surrounded by yarn, paint, and paper scraps in my latest craft project.

It’s truly an honor to be part of a mission that brings people and nature closer together one playground and one community at a time. Can’t wait to dig in (sometimes literally!) and grow alongside this incredible team.

Stay tuned for more updates from the field!