This summer, Park Pride is thrilled to welcome two full-time interns! They are joining us through the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation‘s summer intern program. Our interns will help support efforts across our Visioning Program, getting hands-on experience in Atlanta’s parks and greenspace sector. Keep reading to get to know our fantastic summer interns!
Lauren Anderson Pirkle – Park Visioning Intern
Lauren is back for her second summer interning with Park Pride! She is currently pursuing a Master of Landscape Architecture degree at the University of Georgia. Lauren also has a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from Georgia Tech and has previously worked as an environmental planner. She believes that good urban design and public spaces, like parks, can shape our lives for the better, and she is passionate about ensuring that everyone has access to places that facilitate recreation, play, and community.
Continue reading to get to know Lauren in her own words!
What brought you back to Park Pride?
I absolutely loved interning at Park Pride last summer and enjoyed participating in a design process guided by community engagement and the public. Ultimately, I adore Park Pride, and I wanted the opportunity to contribute to its mission and be immersed in its programs and initiatives for another summer!
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
The power of parks to me refers to the role of parks as integral spaces for gathering and recreation while also promoting community capacity and local agency.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
Parks remain one of the few truly democratic spaces in that they’re free and are open to all individuals regardless of background. Parks provide a respite from our tech-heavy lives, opportunities to play and exercise, and places to gather as a community.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I am excited about engaging in the stakeholder process and delving into historical research for our visioning plan for Ruby Harper Park!
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
I hope to empower communities by listening to their needs and wants and offering empathetic and responsive design options that they can then pursue as a community.
What’s your favorite park memory?
Spring picnics at Mason Mill Park.
Favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
Mason Mill Park in Decatur is my closest park and the one I frequent the most. I love people-watching and walking the boardwalk trails that meander over the creeks and through the forest.
Ashton Westfall – Park Visioning Intern
Ashton, born and raised in Atlanta, is currently pursuing a degree in Graphic Design at Georgia State University. His goal as a designer is to go beyond visuals and create work that makes people feel seen, connected, and part of something meaningful. Nature gives Ashton space to breathe and reminds him that his work should carry meaning.
Continue reading to get to know Ashton in his own words!
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
Having a space in nature where you can deeply connect with the most important people in your life—friends, family, and even yourself—offers a powerful sense of peace, presence, and belonging.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
Parks are a valuable part of the community because they bring a sense of peace, clarity, and escape that only nature can give.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I’m really excited for my new role because it gives me the chance to learn from experienced professionals and collaborate with my team and colleagues. I’m looking forward to growing in my skills and making a meaningful impact through my work!
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
I hope to create a space where communities feel welcome and can fully embrace the moment with the important people around them.
What’s your favorite park memory?
Playing on the swings as a kid and jumping off at the top.
Favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
One park I really love—though it’s a bit niche—is Hurt Park. It’s small, but it’s on my daily walk to class. I always take a little detour just to pass through and spend a quiet moment with the squirrels.