Photo Credit: Caroline Dzalio
When the Boston Parks Department met with the mayor to plan programs in city parks for the coming year, the mayor reminisced about what he did for fun when he was growing up: fish with his father, play chess on the front steps with friends, and go for walks in the woods near his home. That discussion led to brainstorming new programs that could be offered by the city to encourage children and teenagers, particularly non-athletic youth, to go outside. Those kids who enjoy sports already have hundreds of outdoor activities to choose from.
The department’s marketing division immediately went to work, asking young people what they would like for activities, evaluating available resources, establishing partnerships with nonprofits and private companies to help host events, and finalizing a schedule for what could be done immediately and what ideas might be possible long-term.
Resources included existing park amenities, current city employees, revenue opportunities such as grant options, and any local non-profits or companies for possible partnerships. Several new program ideas quickly materialized.