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 is unique among Park Pride’s programs. Whereas the Park Visioning and Grantmaking Programs will help you make physical improvements in your park, PSA will direct your passion for community and greenspace into the creation of exciting events, activities, and volunteer opportunities that will engage neighbors in your park and fill it with positive activity.
In short, the Park Stewardship Academy adds tools to your toolbox to create a well-loved greenspace that is vibrant, safe, and the heart of your community.
What will you learn?
Participants will focus on practical skills and knowledge to create a thriving, active, and well-cared for greenspace, including:
- organizing a volunteer day
- event planning
- fundraising
- strategies for getting neighbors involved in the park
- working with elected officials
- areas of special interest, including urban ecology, health and wellness, creating welcoming spaces, and more.
When will PSA start and what is the schedule?
This program is a fun and engaging 3-month experience. Sessions will begin early September with graduation in early December 2023. 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.
Who can participate?
PSA will have 10 to 15 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).
Sound Interesting? Apply Today!
The application period is OPEN through May 31.