Dedication Programs
Make a commemorative gift to honor a loved one, friend, or special moment while promoting the care and maintenance of Washington Square Park.
Bench Dedications
Bench dedications are a wonderful way to celebrate and commemorate an important person or event in your life.
When you dedicate a bench in Washington Square Park, a plaque with your custom message will be installed on an available bench of your choosing. Your donation for a 10-year term bench dedication will directly benefit your bench’s maintenance and care, steward Washington Square Park’s grounds and gardens, and bring free, public programs to the plazas and squares.
To learn more and get started with your bench dedication, please fill out the Washington Square Park Bench Dedication Inquiry form.
Tree Guard Dedications
Honor a special person or moment while protecting one of Washington Square Park’s trees by dedicating a tree guard.
Your dedication will help install a new guard around a tree of your choosing on the perimeter of Washington Square Park. The tree guard will include a commemorative plaque with your custom message engraved for a ten-year term.
Your donation for a tree guard dedication will help protect these important trees from foot traffic and power the watering and daily stewardship needed to help them grow for years to come. Fill out the Washington Square Park Tree Dedication Inquiry form to learn more.
Plant Dedication
Honor a loved one, an important event, or your love for this beautiful public space when you make a plant dedication at Washington Square Park.
When you make your dedication for your selected plant, we will send you a commemorative e-note with your custom message. Though we can’t provide a specific location or individuate the exact plant, when you look out into the park’s gardens, you will know that your bloom is making our park vibrant and lush.
Your plant dedication will help keep our park colorful and lively between spring and fall when the flora is green and flowers are in bloom. Follow this link to learn more about plant dedications.
Dedications FAQs
How do I begin the dedication process?
We’re honored you’re thinking about making a dedication in Washington Square Park! To get started, please complete the appropriate form, then our team will reach out to guide you through the next steps.
What is the contribution level for a dedication?
- Single-wide bench (one side): $10,000
- Tree guard: $15,000
- Plant: $50-$600
These fully tax-deductible contributions support the ongoing care and maintenance of Washington Square Park to ensure it remains welcoming and loved by all.
Does a plant dedication include a physical sign in the park?
Plant dedications are a symbolic way to support the diversity of vibrant plant life of Washington Square Park. While there is no physical signage in the park to mark these dedications, you will receive a designed digital certificate with your custom message.
How long does a dedication last?
Currently, all bench and tree guard dedications at Washington Square Park are for a 10-year term.
What is the estimated timeline for a dedication plaque to be installed?
The process typically takes around 3 months total, starting with the inquiry form listed above, though we do our best to expedite it.
Can I choose the specific location for my dedication?
Absolutely. Once you complete the application process (inquiry form, signed agreement, and dedication payment), our team will share a map of available benches or tree guards. We are happy to help you find a location that holds special meaning for you.
How much text can I include on my plaque?
We recommend no more than 120 characters total. This translates to a maximum of 4 lines, with no more than 30 characters (including spaces) per line. The more text you include, the smaller the font will be. You will always receive a design proof for review and can request edits before the plaque is printed.
All plaque wording must be pre-approved by WSPC. No language that is obscene, indecent or profane, or which may tend to arouse hatred or ill will against any group or individual on the basis of their sex, race, creed, national origin, sexual orientation, sexual identity, or affectional preferences will be permitted. No commercial content, offensive language, or images are allowed. The dedication text cannot infringe on copyright or trademark laws.
How do I submit my donation payment?
We accept checks, credit cards, and wire transfers. Some donors also choose to fulfill their dedication through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) or a gift of appreciated stock. Our team can provide specific instructions depending on your choice of donation method.
Is my dedication tax-deductible?
Yes. The Washington Square Park Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your contribution is tax-deductible and you will receive an acknowledgment letter for your records.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out to us at donate@washingtonsqpark.org.