Overview:
This guide is co-published through a partnership with the Cleveland Parks & Greenspace Coalition and Trust for Public Land (TPL). The coalition advocates for an equitable parks and recreation system and supports resident-led stewardship and activation of city parks. TPL works to connect all Ohioans to the outdoors through land conservation, parks, trails and schoolyards. This article is written by Tait Ferguson, coordinator for the coalition. This guide is specifically for City of Cleveland parks, not Cleveland Metroparks.
Organizing a group of neighbors is a great way to advocate for, program and take care of your local park. Groups range in size, scope and focus. Your group may have a few passionate residents or several dozen people taking care of a local park with consistent programming and maintenance.
How do I start organizing a group for my local park?
There is no one right way to start or maintain a group for your park. This guide offers some possible steps, but make it your own. You can reach out to the Parks & Greenspace Coalition if you need some help getting started.
- Check to see if there is already a group organized for your park. Search online, ask neighbors, or send an email: parkscoalitioncle@gmail.com.
- Gather a couple of neighbors. You can do this by knocking on doors, distributing flyers, making an announcement at the next community meeting, or posting to social media.
- Determine the purpose of your group. Hold an open meeting to discuss what you hope to accomplish. Some groups focus on maintenance needs, some on programming, others on a large improvement, or all of the above.
- Find a way to keep spreading the word. You can create a social media page, talk with nearby businesses, survey neighbors, put up flyers, or attend community events.
Where can I get funding or supplies to get going?
The Parks & Greenspace Coalition may have some event materials and park clean-up supplies to help you get started. We also have a handbook with helpful contacts, funding information and more. Send an email with your request: parkscoalitioncle@gmail.com.
Suggested Reading
Neighborhood Connections awards NeighborUp Action Grants two times a year, accepting applications in February and August. These grants range from $500 to $5,000 and are a great way to get your initial program off the ground. More funding opportunities are shared here.
You will need a fiscal agent to apply. This is an organization with nonprofit status that can handle funds and insurance requirements. Often, groups use a nearby church or community development corporation (CDC).
Do I need to get approval from the city?
No, you do not need approval to form a group for your local park. But you will need approval for any park improvements or large events your group plans.
Small events: You can reserve city park shelters for private, small-scale gatherings (picnics, birthday parties, family reunions, etc.) using the online Division of Recreation portal. Once on the home page, click the “Shelter & Park Rentals” button from the top menu. You must submit your reservation at least 14 days in advance of your event.
Large events: If you are planning to host a large event, such as parades, festivals, or activities requiring street closure or other city facilities, you will need approval from the Division of Special Events. Visit the Special Events website for application details. You can contact their office via phone at 216-664-2484.
Park improvements: If your group is planning to make an improvement or upgrade to your city park, you will need city approval before beginning. The city can approve resident-led projects on a case-by-case basis.
For city-led improvements, visit our post on park improvements to understand whether you should contact the Division of Park Maintenance or the Mayor’s Office of Capital Projects (MOCAP). Check MOCAP’s list of upcoming park improvement projects to see if your park is listed.
If you have more questions, you can reach out to: parkscoalitioncle@gmail.com.
Do you have a question about parks and greenspace in your community? Connect with the Parks and Greenspace Coalition and submit your question here.
You can learn more about the Trust for Public Land’s work in Ohio here.
