Friends of the Parks

Fostering a broader community relationship

Throughout Chicago, many communities have teams of volunteers working in area parks, nature preserves and beaches along the Lakefront. Oftentimes, these volunteers go about their day-to-day activities, tending to the needs of our great open spaces.

For the sake of our communities, park advisory councils and advocates should continue to broaden their team of supporters to ensure a safe and fun-filled park environment. We encourage you to reach out to responsible public/elected officials, community and faith-based organizations, business groups and the Chicago Police CAPS Program.  They are your partners for an improved quality of life for all citizens within your neighborhood.

Use this fact sheet to serve as a helpful guide for fostering partnerships in the community and region:

• Publicly post your monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly meetings in the park and throughout your park service area
• Prepare a brochure stating your park council activities and special events (ask FOTP for sample brochures from other neighborhood park councils)
• Attend your nearby Local School Council, PTA, Local BEAT meeting in your community.
• Share with other volunteer leaders the many great things happening at your park. (Ask FOTP about our Adopt the Park/Preserve Program with Chicago Public Schools)
• Host local BEAT Meetings and District Area Council (DAC) meetings at your park. Be sure your Park Advisory Council is fully known by your local police commander, Area Detectives, beat officers, and regional park security detail.
• Host an annual open house in cooperation with your park supervisor in order to meet and greet the broader community. Contact FOTP, we can help!
• Host an annual walk-through at your park, nature area or beach front. This will help create check points for safety, improved public access to park land and facilities and further document the level of care needed at your park.
• Issue media alerts announcing your seasonal programs and annual park council elections.  Again, let the public know what’s happening, so we can help market your event (a 1-2 week notice will help in that process).
• Invite Friends of the Parks to your next meeting to exchange ideas and information with you. Help us, help you broaden your relationship and partnership within your community and region

FOTP staff will be available to assist you and your park council. For more information and/or organizing support, contact Jill C. Heise Director of Neighborhood Parks and Community Relations (312) 857-2757 ext. 17. Email: heisej@fotp.org.