Park Pride is excited to announce the latest addition to the team, Taraca Jones! Taraca is now serving as the Executive Coordinator to Park Pride’s President & CEO Michael Halicki. Taraca is passionate about creating equitable access to local greenspaces and supporting initiatives that empower urban communities. With experience in organizational management and a love for fostering connections, Taraca is excited to help make Atlanta’s parks more inclusive and impactful.
Continue reading to get to know Taraca in her own words!
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
The “power of parks” represents the ability of outdoor greenspaces to bring people together, foster community well-being, and provide a haven for relaxation and recreation. Parks are more than just physical spaces—they’re sources of connection, healing, and inspiration. They remind us of the importance of preserving nature as a right, not a privilege.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
Parks are vital because they create accessible spaces for people of all backgrounds to enjoy nature, stay active, and build meaningful connections. In urban areas, parks are often the only places where communities can gather and breathe freely amidst the challenges of city life. They also play a critical role in improving mental health, environmental sustainability, and social equity.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
I’m most excited about working alongside a passionate team to drive meaningful change and connect urban communities to the resources they deserve. This role allows me to contribute to impactful projects that promote equity, collaboration, and resilience while uplifting the voices of underrepresented communities.
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
I hope to empower communities by facilitating open dialogue, increasing access to resources, and fostering partnerships that enable residents to take ownership of their local greenspaces. By ensuring everyone feels heard and included, we can collectively reimagine parks as vibrant, safe spaces that reflect the unique needs and aspirations of each community.
What’s your favorite park memory?
One of my favorite park memories is from my childhood when my parents threw me a birthday party at the park. It was such a fun and carefree day spent playing outside with friends and family, surrounded by fresh air and the simple joy that parks bring. That experience showed me how parks create space for people to come together and make unforgettable memories.
Favorite hometown park?
My favorite hometown park is Independence Community Park in Baton Rouge, LA. It’s a special place because it offers something for everyone—whether it’s enjoying the walking trails, relaxing in the open green spaces, or exploring the library and recreation center nearby.
Help us welcome Taraca to the team! Email her at taraca@parkpride.org.