Including Project U.S.E. in your gift giving this year is a great way to show friends and family how much you care about them and the world they live in!

Our new phone number is (973) 645-0080. If you wish to send a fax please dial (973) 622-7654. Thank you.

In April 2011 Project U.S.E. Executive Director Mike Bagley was invited to speak at Tedx Seton Hall. Tedx events are local versions of the renowned Ted Talks. The theme of the Seton Hall event was "What is your green?", and speakers spoke about what it was in their professional and personal lives that motivated them and gave them energy. Bagley chose "Creating" as his topic, and spoke about the people and experiences that have taught him about creating a life. The Tedx talk is a foreshortened version of a workshop available through Project U.S.E.'s Professional Development program.

Like blooming flowers, senior proms, and Mother's Day, Project U.S.E.'s Boat Launches have become a spring tradition. This year our Boatbuilding Program launched two fleets - four boats in Newark and two in Jersey City.

Congratulations to everyone who participated in the 11th Annual 50 Mile Hike on Saturday, May 7. More than 40 people challenged themselves to complete the rugged stretch of the Appalachian Trail between the Delaware Water Gap and High Point in one day. This year we also added shorter routes, and 16 people tried out the 16.5-mile option, while another 15 individuals tested their abilities on the 6-mile route. It was an outstanding day, and the efforts of the hikers raised the impressive sum of $10,000 for Project U.S.E. We are grateful to everyone who participated, and look forward to the 12th Annual Hike on May 5, 2012.

This year we are excited to bring you not only our traditional 50 Mile Hike, but two two shorter distance hikes of 16.5 and 6 miles as well. Now there are three hikes to choose from—fun for the whole family and no more excuses for those faint-hearted friends! These hikes offer a great way to challenge yourself and explore the wilderness with people who know and love it well.

Javon, a student at North Star Academy Charter School in Newark, NJ tells how Project U.S.E. helped give him the courage to listen to his instincts and share his voice with fellow students, leading them in the new outdoor environment. Honing his keen observation and sketching skills on Project U.S.E. expeditions, Javon has developed a passion for botany and plans to pursue it in college.

Steve, a senior of North Star Academy Charter School in Newark, NJ tells how Project U.S.E. catalyzed his love for the wilderness. Building on his formative experiences with the organization, Steve now leads other students into the outdoors and has traveled to Yellowstone National Park and Wyoming with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School).

Project U.S.E. is pleased to announce that Walter Czarnecki has been elected Treasurer of the Board of Trustees.

In May 2010, Project U.S.E. Trustee Pam Faccone was awarded Prudential's Visionary Volunteer Leadership Award. Project U.S.E. is honored with Pam's service and with Prudential's accompanying $5,000 donation. Their generous contribution will be used to complete our Rooftop Garden.