Residents are playing a larger role in shaping local activities
When it comes to programming, most communities allow their parks department to set the tone, choosing a level of engagement based on what’s available. But, increasingly, residents aren’t waiting to see what’s on the calendar—they’re stepping in to develop the programs themselves.
Community Organizations Take The Lead In Toledo
In Toledo, Ohio, Parks and Youth Services programming suffered for years due to budget cuts. But when the department received funding via the American Rescue Plan in 2021, there was a tremendous opportunity to reverse the trend, and local parks leaders knew they couldn’t act alone.
“When we got this money, we knew immediately that we needed to reach out to the community,” says Karen Ranney Wolkins, Commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Community Enrichment.
Outreach was initially informal. Ranney Wolkins knew her team was most interested in how different programs could reach more children if given additional funds. However, the department eventually formalized its process and solicited grant applications. In summer 2022, $2 million was earmarked for programming, and about 100 programs were funded across 70 organizations. For the fall, another $500,000 was distributed to 40 organizations.
Successful grantees included recognizable names—the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, the YMCA, the Boy Scouts of America, and the Girl Scouts—as well as community-focused startups and nonprofits. And their programming covered everything from recreation to mentoring.
One of the most unique programs taught young women how to use power tools, while simultaneously instilling confidence and empowerment.
