Park Pride is thrilled to welcome two new members to its team — Stephen Causby and Monica Johnson!
Stephen has worked closely with Park Pride on the community side through his involvement with the Friends of Mattie Freeland Park. Now, as Associate Director of Grantmaking & Implementation, he will be able to help communities realize their greenspace dreams through capital investments and improvements. It’s a full circle moment!
Having previously served as Park Pride’s Foundation and Donor Relations Manager, Monica is returning to the organization, this time, as Director of Development! In this role, she will oversee foundation relations, fundraising and development planning, and more.
Continue reading to get to know Stephen and Monica in their own words!
Stephen Causby, Associate Director of Grantmaking & Implementation
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
The power of parks taps into the specific and meaningful role parks play in establishing and maintaining healthy, whole communities. They provide spaces to play and connect, and give neighbors something to care about, together.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
They are keepers of culture, in my opinion. Houses and neighborhoods will all change, but parks are one of the few durable spaces that can hold stories and history, so future generations will know of this time and this place.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I am excited to work with Friends of the Park groups and others to help them implement the visions neighbors have for parks and green spaces. I am convinced that parks infuse life and activity, and our communities need more of them!
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
I hope that through this role, we will reach even more communities with the message that parks are vital places that deserve investment and can return incredible benefits. I know from my own story that efforts to build parks can be transformative for a neighborhood.
What’s your favorite park memory?
My favorite park memories are summer block parties in Mattie Freeland Park!
Favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
I love Mattie Freeland Park, of course, but I found my place in Atlanta and sense of connection and grounding spending time in Piedmont Park when I first moved here in 2003. It’s been a constant for me over the years – and it hosts so many great things!
Send Stephen a message at stephen@parkpride.org to help welcome him to the team!
Monica Johnson, Director of Development
What brought you back to Park Pride?
There is no place like Park Pride! Both the team and the work that we do are inspiring and impactful. It’s an honor to, once again, be a part of positive change in the city that I call home, in a way that deeply impacts people’s lives.
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
Parks aren’t just a field or a playground or a pavilion, but rather parks are fresh air and deep breaths; spaces to laugh and play with your family and neighbors; opportunities to stretch and move. The power of parks is that calm, centered feeling and the smile on your kid’s face.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
Parks are one of the few spaces where community is built and maintained. It’s a place where people come together and are on equal footing.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I’m excited to share the story of parks, the people out there doing the work investing in their communities, and the value of the work that Park Pride does to help support park improvements and activation all throughout the city.
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
Now more than ever, communities are the backbone of our city and nation, shaping how supported, healthy, and connected we feel. When we engage with our neighborhood parks, we realize our power to create meaningful change—and that transformation extends far beyond the park itself. I aim to be a partner in this change by supporting and uplifting communities through parks and green spaces.
What’s your favorite park memory?
When I think of a park memory, I feel the warmth of the sun on my face and the weight of a good book in my lap. I hear birds chirp and my children laugh as they play. It’s moments like this when I feel present, grounded, and grateful.
Favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
Grant Park – not only is it beautiful but also it’s home!
Send Monica a message at monica@parkpride.org to help welcome her to the team!