Park Pride is excited to announce that Emily Cruse has joined the team as the new Grantmaking Program Specialist! In this role, she will support Friends of the Park groups’ efforts to advance community-centered park improvements through funding and technical assistance. She’ll help manage the grant application process and support grantees along the way.
Continue reading to get to know Emily in her own words!
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
Parks can satisfy a deep need for both solitude in nature and connection to people and culture. I love that these needs can coexist, where parks can offer powerful healing and grounding moments as well as support vibrant community celebrations where people can feel part of something bigger.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
As we navigate living in the 21st century, greenspaces are more precious than ever. They provide a space for people to recharge, recreate, and reunite.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I’m excited to be part of the process to help neighborhoods move from being recipients of decisions to drivers of them through the Friends of the Park groups and programming. It’s special to be able to translate local visions into real physical change.
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
Communities hold the emotion, experiences, and vision for how they want their neighborhood park to look and feel. Inspiration for investment stems from their creativity and participation in the process. My hope is that when their input is heard and valued that they feel empowered to continue to stay involved in long term stewardship and share support of their local park with others.
What’s your favorite park memory?
Growing up, my neighborhood park in Phoenix was erected from an old overgrown retention basin. My brother and I watched the progress of the park being built. Many birthday parties, soccer practices, and rollerblade races were held over the years that followed.
Favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
As a westside dweller, I enjoy Shirley C. Franklin Park (formerly Westside Park). The transformation of a quarry into a critical reservoir along with the topography of the park is unique. I love a fun fact! Did you know, the tunnel that connects the Chattahoochee River to the old quarry basin was drilled by a massive machine nicknamed ‘Driller Mike’?
Send Emily a message at emily@parkpride.org to help welcome her to the team!