Joanna Patterson has joined the Park Pride team as the Volunteer Associate, supporting the Friends of the Park groups and Atlanta’s corporate community engage in meaningful volunteer projects in parks. Originally from Crossville, TN, Joanna grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta near Red Top Mountain and moved to the city in 2011. She has been involved in the food, music, and arts community here ever since. A professional cook and baker, Joanna has been called into the nonprofit work through her passion for a more sustainable community. Her past roles have been in recycling and at the Atlanta Community ToolBank, and she is very happy to continue her green career at Park Pride.
Continue reading to get to know Joanna in her own words!
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
To me, power of parks implies that there is healing and growth. Parks have a healing quality that allows you to unwind from the stresses of life.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
Parks provide a green space for the community to come together and be outside.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I’m excited to work with and learn from the amazing Park Pride Staff and advocate for the continued growth of community parks alongside them.
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
As the new Volunteer Associate, I hope to connect parks groups with volunteers and other resources that will empower communities to complete projects that will improve their parks.
What’s your favorite park memory?
Cumberland Mountain State Park is in my hometown in Tennessee, and it is a place where my family gathers every year for a family reunion. I have lots of good memories eating picnics at the pavilion, hiking around with my cousins, and paddle boating on the pond.
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What’s your favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
My favorite park is Chosewood Park. I have lived in Chosewood for eight years, and this park feels like an extension of my home. Chosewood Park is a place that has been somewhere I can walk to on a regular basis with my dog, utilize the parks amenities with friends and family, forage edible mushrooms, and it would not be unusual if I came across deer.
Help us welcome Joanna to the team! Email her at joanna@parkpride.org.