Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Our grads include Deionte Benson, Gresham Park; Saratan Farrer, Herbert Greene Nature Preserve & Wilson Mill Park; Bill Gould, Ormewood Forest; Olivia Hollis, Perkerson Park; Marianna Lee, Mountain Way Common; Rodney Mullins, Maddox Park; Michael Paul, Olmsted Linear Parks; Quanda Spencer, Outdoor Activity Center; James Tyler, Lionel Hampton Nature Preserve.
*Applications for the 2026 class are open from May 1 – 31!*
What is Park Stewardship Academy (PSA)?
Park Stewardship Academy (PSA) is an educational and skill-building program for Friends of the Park group members that will support your passion for community and greenspace. Learn more about hosting events, activities, and volunteer opportunities that will engage neighbors in your park and fill it with positive activity. Sessions will also connect you with other park professionals and Park Pride staff who can aid you in your park improvement journey. Sessions are planned from the weekend after Labor Day through the first weekend in December 2026, generally held on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings. You will make connections, learn from practitioners/professionals and graduate with a comprehensive worksheet and list of resources tailored to your park and the interests and needs of your community. After completing the program, all PSA graduates are eligible to apply for an Activation Grant to support efforts that bring more visitors to the park.
What will you learn?
Participants will focus on practical skills and knowledge to create a thriving, active, and well-cared-for greenspace, including:
- park advocacy
- event planning
- Friends group structure, governance and sustainability
- fundraising
- community-based asset development
- hosting a volunteer event
- storytelling for stewardship
- working with elected officials
- becoming a transformational leader (instead of transactional!)
- areas of special interest, including public art, ecology, civic engagement and more
When will PSA start and what is the schedule?
This program is a fun and engaging 3-month experience. Sessions will begin Sessions are planned from the weekend after Labor Day through the first weekend in December 2026, generally held on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings. Sessions will occur on occasional weekday evenings (many via Zoom) and Saturday mornings. A total of approximately 10-12 sessions will be spread over the 3-month period. Applications for the 2026 session will open from May 1 – 31.
Who can participate?
PSA will have 10 to 12 people from parks across our service area. If you’re interested in making a positive difference in your local park, building community around neighbors, and bringing more programming to your park, this program is for you!
Participants must be members of a registered Friends of the Park group with Park Pride (or willing to register a group this summer).