CHATHAM NOVEMBER 5, 2002 – The E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation, a newly-formed Foundation charged with promoting activities that enhance the environment in southern Chester County, recently awarded its first-ever round of grants, totaling $34,800 to area organizations.

This year's grant recipients are: Freedom Valley Girl Scouts Council, for Pine Reforestation and Erosion Control at Camp Tweedle ($10,000); Red Clay Valley Association for rest area and picnic furnishings for the Red Clay Greenway Trail Project ($10,000); Kennett Area Park Authority for Master Planning for the former Kennett Landfill ($10,000); and, Ms. Martha Strauss, for preparation of seasonal nature walks and lesson plans for intermediate school students in the Avon Grove School District ($4,800).

The E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation is primarily interested in working with organizations and individuals to enhance the natural environment in southern Chester County. It's goals include providing the resources to people and organizations to build understanding of the environment in this region, nurture programs that enhance the natural environment, and reclaim a common sense of environment in this region.

The Dockstader Foundation will award another round of grants next summer. Said Bill Stullken, Foundation Secretary, "The Foundation gave almost $35,000 in grants to benefit the environment in southern Chester County last year, and plans to do even more next year."

Established in 2001, the foundation was formed by the Southeastern Chester County Refuse Authority (SECCRA) to honor Mr. Dockstader's 23-year tenure as Chairman of its Board of Directors. It will carry on his dedication to helping and improving the SECCRA community. Financial support for the foundation is provided by SECCRA.

For more information about the E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation, contact Bill Stullken of SECCRA at 610-869-2452.