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Providing Support in Our Own Backyard
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![HF oak donation to Country Store](https://harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/HF%20oak%20donation%20to%20Country%20Store_photo%20by%20Nancy%20Allen_1.jpg?itok=5UNPpWqB)
The Harvard Forest is home to science and education programs that benefit the region and the world, but we also recognize our role as part of a rural community in Central Massachusetts. Recent contributions to local enterprise include:
- A $5,000 donation to the East Quabbin Land Trust for their efforts to renovate and reopen the Petersham Country Store, as well as a large donation of oak timber for flooring (pictured at left, photo by Nancy Allen).
- A $2,500 donation toward renovations of the Athol Public Library, which reopened in December 2013 with many new features, including quiet study rooms, one co-sponsored with funds from the Forest (pictured at right; photo by Brian Hall).
- Full sponsorship of the Petersham Police Department's D.A.R.E. program, which brings an officer to the Petersham Center School for 10 workshops a year on drug awareness and bullying prevention.
- Year-round field trips and workshops for teachers and students from local K-12 schools (explore map of participating schools at left).
Learn more about the Harvard Forest's contributions to local communities.