The City of Reading envisions a clean, healthy and prosperous future for all people who live, learn, work, and play in our community. A resilient and sustainable city prepares for and adapts to changing conditions. As a regional leader, Reading will invest in building a strong and future-looking economy, creating a healthy and cohesive society, and protecting and enhancing our natural environment. Alvernia has a strong relationship with , which provides our campus community with experiential learning opportunities across many majors through research, service and educational programming.
The is an open-air, seasonal farmers market in the heart of downtown Reading, PA. The market features local farm produce, fresh meats, baked goods, locally owned restaurants and more. This market has been in operation since the late 1800s; we are continuing a tradition. Alvernia’s Bog Turtle Creek Farm is a primary food vendor at the market each summer providing fresh, affordable produce to city residents.
works with neighborhoods, institutions, retailers, farmers and policymakers across the country to ensure delicious, nutritious food for all. The Food Trust provides support, education, and resources to the community to access, cook and eat healthy food. Customers receive Berks Farm Bucks after attending The Food Trust nutrition programs, which can be used at farmers markets throughout Reading.
has served the Berks County community since 1974. Land preservation, water protection, trail management, community gardens, education programs, State of the Environment, Eco-Camp and our valued partnerships are at the center of Berks Nature’s work every day. Alvernia faculty, staff and students partner with Berks Nature on a variety of initiatives.
is a unique state park in Pennsylvania that encompasses more than 725 acres of deciduous woodlands and coniferous plantations. Its network of trails and educational programs make the streams, ponds and diverse habitat accessible to school groups and the general public. It features the Nolde mansion, environmental education center, nature play area and a native wildflower garden.
Owned and operated by Drew Oberholtzer and Ana Konopitskaya, is disrupting architecture and construction through innovations in regenerative materials to pioneer environments that are healthy and toxic free. We are currently developing multiple hemp-based materials at our research facility in Pennsylvania.
