Tusten Social, a community-focused nonprofit organization, hosted its second annual community mixer and fundraiser in its new space, The Commons, located in The Shops at Narrowsburg, 90 Main Street.

The fundraising goal was to raise funds to furnish and kit out this flexible community space.

Founded 18 months ago, Tusten Social works to identify and fill gaps in local social and civic infrastructure through a collaborative partnership model driven by community input. The organization operates on the foundational belief that social and civic infrastructure is as vital to community health as physical infrastructure, particularly in low-density rural populations.

Community-driven 

development

Since April 2023, Tusten Social has evolved from hosting events in popup locations like the Bridge Street Bakehouse and the Tusten Town Hall Community Room to now welcoming the community in their permanent space, The Commons.

The organization’s development was informed by the Town of Tusten’s Comprehensive Plan, which identified the need for increased resources and activities for youth and seniors. Through partnership with the River Reporter, Tusten Social conducted community listening sessions that shaped their programming direction.

Successful programming initiatives

Working with the Tusten Youth Commission, Western Sullivan Public Library, and Bethel Woods Education Outreach Programs, Tusten Social established the weekly Tusten Youth Club. This free after-school program focuses on creative arts for ages 6-15 and consistently serves 30-40 children weekly. The organization also launched Sage Sessions, a twice-monthly social mixer for seniors, in partnership with Growing Older Together and the DVAA. This program regularly attracts 40-50 seniors per event.

Looking ahead

Tusten Social will launch pilot programming for teens, adults, and families before year-end, with a particular focus on creating an after-school space for teens.

“We are thrilled to welcome the community to our new dedicated space and can’t wait to move in, get settled and open our doors to programs for teens, families and adults,” Greta Knutzen, Tusten Social Co-founder and Board Member, said. “We are excited to expand our community programs but none of this would be possible without the dedication of an extraordinary group of people who have put their trust, time and energy into bringing our mission to life – our board of directors, community and business supporters, and our magnificent volunteers. We cannot thank them enough.” 

Ways to Support

Community members can support Tusten Social by:

- Participating in community listening sessions

- Signing up for the mailing list

- Volunteering

- Becoming a business supporter

- Making a donation

- Sharing the organization’s mission

For more information or to join the mailing list, contact hello@tustensocial.org.

Donation Information

- Venmo: @TustenSocial

- Mail: PO Box 437, Narrowsburg, NY, 12764

Social Media

- Instagram: @Tusten_Social

- Facebook: TustenSocial

- Website: www.tustensocial.org