Friends of the Parks
Friends of the Parks
Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.
Friends of the Parks was formed in 1975. It inspires, equips and mobilizes a diverse Chicago to ensure an equitable park system for a healthy Chicago.
Friends of the Parks believes that a healthy park system: is equitably distributed and resourced; contributes to inclusivity and democracy; offers a balance of recreational and natural resources; contributes to neighborhood safety; ensures gathering spaces that help to build community; supports the rejuvenation of body, mind and spirit; promotes the health of our environment; and forms part of a healthy economic base for our neighborhoods and the city.
Our activities span these domains:
- Civic Engagement – supporting Park Advisory Councils and other stakeholders via technical assistance, fiscal sponsorship services and workshops.
- Advocacy – serving as a watchdog and resource for public agencies to ensure equity, fairness, and responsiveness to Chicago communities and leading signature projects that promote new park development and investment.
- Educational Programming – Nature Along the Lake, which organizes field trips for Chicago Public School students to learn about protecting shoreline habitats.
- Stewardship – our annual Earth Day celebration where thousands of volunteers clean up and mulch in parks all across Chicago.
Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.
Monstrost bird watch. Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.
Playground. Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.
Ducks not Dumps. Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.
Dune grass. Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.
Image courtesy of Friends of the Parks.