Preserving Our Heritage, Inspiring Our Future

At Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc., we are dedicated to protecting and promoting the historical significance of our beloved community. Through education, engagement, and preservation, we keep our shared heritage alive for generations to come.

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About us

At Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc., we believe that history is more than the past—it is the foundation of our community’s identity and the inspiration for our future. Our mission is to protect and promote the historical significance of Mount Pleasant while fostering a deeper appreciation for its cultural heritage. By engaging residents, sharing stories, and preserving landmarks, we ensure that future generations can connect with and learn from the legacy that shaped us. Together, we build a bridge between yesterday and tomorrow, honoring traditions while inspiring new ones.

Preserve

We are deeply committed to protecting the landmarks, architecture, and cultural treasures that define the Mount Pleasant community. Each building, monument, and artifact carries the memory of those who came before us. By advocating for careful preservation and restoration, we ensure that these pieces of history do not fade into the background but remain active parts of our community. Preservation is not only about saving the past—it is about giving the future a strong, enduring foundation rooted in heritage.

Educate

Knowledge builds appreciation, and appreciation fuels preservation. Through workshops, guided tours, lectures, school programs, and community events, we share the stories and significance of Mount Pleasant’s history. Our goal is to make history engaging and accessible to all ages, turning learning into an experience that connects people with their roots. By inspiring curiosity and teaching the importance of heritage, we empower residents to value and protect what makes their community unique.

Engage

Community involvement lies at the heart of our work. We believe that preserving history is not the job of a few but the responsibility of many. Through volunteering opportunities, collaborative projects, and neighborhood events, we encourage residents to become active participants in shaping the story of Mount Pleasant. Engagement brings people together across generations and backgrounds, strengthening the bonds that make our community resilient and united. Together, we celebrate our past while creating a shared vision for the future.

Our Mission

At Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc., our mission is to preserve the historical and cultural treasures of Mount Pleasant while inspiring community pride and participation. We are dedicated to safeguarding the stories, landmarks, and traditions that define our neighborhood and to making them accessible for all. By engaging residents, hosting educational programs, and promoting hands-on preservation efforts, we ensure that our shared heritage remains a source of identity, learning, and inspiration for generations to come.

Our Vision

We envision a future where the history of Mount Pleasant is celebrated, protected, and integrated into everyday community life. Our vision is to see residents of all ages take pride in their heritage, recognize the value of historical preservation, and carry forward the lessons of the past. We strive to create a vibrant, connected community where history is not forgotten but honored, where cultural identity thrives, and where our shared legacy shapes a brighter tomorrow.

Our Values

We believe in protecting historic landmarks, stories, and traditions to ensure they remain part of our collective identity.We are committed to teaching residents about the value of history through programs, events, and outreach initiatives that make learning engaging and meaningful.We recognize that preserving history is a shared responsibility, and we encourage participation from residents, volunteers, and partners to build a stronger, more united community.We uphold honesty, transparency, and care in every project, ensuring that our work honors the legacy of those who came before us.We believe that by remembering the past, we empower future generations to create a community rooted in pride, resilience, and unity.

Our Impact

Through our efforts, Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc. has become a cornerstone for cultural pride and community preservation. We have helped raise awareness about the importance of heritage, engaged residents in hands-on projects, and built lasting partnerships that strengthen our neighborhood. Our programs and initiatives bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and identity while inspiring action to protect what makes Mount Pleasant unique. Each event, workshop, and preservation effort contributes to a growing movement of residents who care deeply about their shared history.


Our team

At Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc., our strength lies in the people who dedicate their time, passion, and expertise to preserving the heritage of our community. Our team is a blend of historians, educators, community leaders, and volunteers who share one common goal: to protect and celebrate the history that defines Mount Pleasant. Together, we work tirelessly to connect the past with the present and inspire pride for the future.

Mary Thompson — President

Mary has spent her career advocating for the preservation of local history and culture. With a background in community development and nonprofit leadership, she provides strategic direction for all of the organization’s programs. Mary believes that history connects us to our identity, and she works tirelessly to ensure that Mount Pleasant’s heritage is celebrated through education, preservation, and public engagement. Her vision has been central to expanding our outreach efforts, fostering partnerships with schools, and creating events that bring neighbors together.

Robert Martinez — Vice President

Robert grew up in Newark and has always felt a strong connection to Mount Pleasant’s stories and traditions. His leadership focuses on ensuring that the voices of the community are heard in every project we undertake. Robert is deeply involved in outreach, helping to organize events that highlight the cultural richness of the neighborhood while also encouraging younger generations to participate. He is passionate about making history accessible and meaningful, believing that everyone should see themselves reflected in their community’s heritage.

Linda Green — Treasurer

Linda combines her expertise in finance with a strong dedication to cultural preservation. She ensures that our resources are managed responsibly, allowing us to grow sustainably while still honoring our mission. Beyond her financial oversight, Linda is a strong advocate for transparency and accountability, ensuring that donors and supporters know their contributions are making a real difference. Her careful stewardship has allowed the organization to expand its programs and invest in long-term preservation projects.

Our Work

At Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc., our work is rooted in the belief that preserving history is a shared responsibility—one that requires education, action, and community involvement. We dedicate our efforts to protecting historic landmarks, sharing the stories of our past, and inspiring residents to take part in preserving the identity of Mount Pleasant. Through a combination of preservation projects, educational initiatives, and community programs, we bring history to life and ensure it remains a vibrant part of everyday life.

Historic Preservation

We actively advocate for and support the protection of historic landmarks, buildings, and sites that define the character of Mount Pleasant. By working with preservation experts, local officials, and community members, we ensure that these structures are not only protected from neglect but also restored in ways that respect their history. Our preservation efforts are about more than bricks and mortar—they are about keeping alive the memories, stories, and traditions that these places represent.

Education and Storytelling

We believe that history becomes meaningful when it is shared. That’s why we design programs, workshops, and guided tours to help residents of all ages explore the rich heritage of our community. From school partnerships that bring local history into classrooms to public lectures and storytelling sessions, we provide opportunities for learning that are both engaging and inspiring. Our educational initiatives help people see their community through a new lens—one that values the past while shaping a stronger future.

Community Engagement

Engagement is at the heart of everything we do. We organize neighborhood events, volunteer days, and cultural celebrations that bring people together. These gatherings create opportunities for residents to connect with one another, learn from shared experiences, and contribute directly to the preservation of Mount Pleasant’s history. Whether it’s planting trees around historic sites, helping with restoration projects, or participating in a cultural festival, community members are always at the center of our work.

Cultural Programs and Events

History is more than facts and dates—it is lived through culture, traditions, and celebrations. We host cultural programs that highlight the diverse backgrounds and stories that make Mount Pleasant unique. From art exhibitions and musical performances to seasonal festivals and heritage walks, our events celebrate the past while fostering pride in the present. These programs also create intergenerational connections, giving young people opportunities to learn directly from elders in the community.

Research and Documentation

Part of our work involves carefully researching and documenting the stories of Mount Pleasant. We collect oral histories, preserve photographs, and create archives that ensure no piece of our heritage is forgotten. This ongoing documentation project helps us build a permanent record of the neighborhood’s identity and gives future generations a valuable resource to understand where they come from.

Advocacy for Heritage

We also work as advocates for historic preservation, raising awareness about the importance of protecting cultural landmarks. By collaborating with local leaders, policymakers, and organizations, we ensure that heritage is recognized as a vital part of Newark’s identity. Our advocacy is about making sure history has a voice in decisions that affect the future of our community.

Our Volunteers

At Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc., our volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission. They are neighbors, families, students, and community members who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to preserving the history of Mount Pleasant. Every project we take on, every story we share, and every event we host is made possible because of the commitment of our volunteers.

Why Volunteer With Us?

Volunteering is more than lending a helping hand—it’s becoming part of something bigger than yourself. When you volunteer with us, you join a community of people who care deeply about protecting our heritage and making sure future generations have the opportunity to learn from it. You’ll gain hands-on experience in preservation projects, connect with people who share your love of history, and play an important role in building pride and unity across our neighborhood.

Ways to Get Involved

Preservation Projects
Help restore and protect historic landmarks by working alongside experts and community members. From hands-on repairs to maintenance and beautification, your work will leave a lasting mark on Mount Pleasant.

Community Events
Assist in organizing and running cultural programs, festivals, and heritage walks that bring people together to celebrate history. Volunteers help make these gatherings welcoming and impactful for everyone.

Education and Outreach
Support workshops, school programs, and storytelling sessions by helping to engage residents and students. Volunteers play a key role in inspiring curiosity and passing on the value of heritage to younger generations.

Research and Documentation
Work with our team to collect oral histories, preserve photographs, or document historical sites. Your contributions will ensure that no story or detail is lost to time.

The Volunteer Experience

Our volunteers don’t just give their time—they become part of a family committed to celebrating and protecting Mount Pleasant. They tell us that volunteering with Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc. is rewarding, meaningful, and filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and make real connections. Whether you can give a few hours a month or dedicate more time to ongoing projects, your involvement will make a tangible difference in the preservation of our heritage.

Testimonials

The work we do at Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc. is made meaningful by the people who experience it firsthand. From volunteers to community members, our supporters share how our mission has inspired, educated, and connected them to the heritage of Mount Pleasant.

Sarah Jenkins — Local Resident
“Being part of Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant has been life-changing. I’ve learned so much about the history of my own neighborhood and feel a deep connection to the stories and landmarks that surround me. Volunteering here has given me purpose and a sense of community that I truly value.”

Linda Green — Board Member
“Watching volunteers and residents come together to protect our community’s history is inspiring. Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant not only preserves landmarks but also strengthens the bonds that make our neighborhood unique. Being involved has been a rewarding and unforgettable experience.”

Michael Rodriguez — Volunteer
“I never realized how rich the history of Mount Pleasant really is until I joined this organization. Every preservation project and community event has taught me something new. I’m proud to be part of a team that keeps our heritage alive for future generations.”

Angela Rivera — Community Volunteer
“Volunteering with this organization has given me the opportunity to make a tangible difference in my community. Whether it’s helping at events, restoring historic sites, or sharing stories, I feel proud knowing my work helps preserve our heritage and inspire others to do the same.”

Anthony Parker — Local Educator
“Through the programs and workshops offered by Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant, my students have developed a real appreciation for local history. The organization makes learning interactive and meaningful, showing that history isn’t just in books—it’s all around us.”

Join the Community

Our supporters’ voices reflect the heart of our mission: connecting people to the history, culture, and pride of Mount Pleasant. Become part of the story by volunteering, attending events, or supporting our preservation efforts today.

Contact Us

We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, suggestions, or want to get involved, our team at Friends of Historic Mount Pleasant Inc. is here to help. Your connection strengthens our mission to preserve and celebrate the history of Mount Pleasant.

Address: 375 BROADWAY, NEWARK, NJ 07104-1516
Email: info@fhmp.site

Get in Touch
If you would like more information about volunteering, upcoming events, or preservation projects, please reach out to us via email or visit us at our office. We are always happy to welcome new friends and supporters who care about the community and its history.