Programming

Periodically, assess the programs offered in the park. Engage residents around what programming they would like to see and ask them questions to inform the content, structure, and outcomes of the programming. Invest time in engaging historically and currently underrepresented community members in this process, and look for opportunities for park programming to reflect the unique culture of the local community. In-person or survey engagement beyond looking at program enrollment numbers is important, as there may be many reasons a program is or isn’t being utilized.

Publish and disseminate a permitting process for residents to host community-run programming in the park facility. The permitting process should be simple, clear, and low cost to reduce barriers and encourage use. The process should also take into account exemptions for spontaneous user-driven programming. Additional programming in parks beyond what RAP offers has the potential to further activate the space, increasing park usage and fostering a more culturally responsive park system.

A focus should be placed on programs that have benefits for several different types of park users. Cross-beneficial programming creates stacked benefits that increase social bonding, community education, and park activation.

Parks and recreation facilities are located in diverse and dynamic communities, and programming should be culturally relevant to respond to each park’s specific community context and needs. Parks also may have unique ecological assets that inform additional nature-based programming. Formally partnering with local CBOs, arts organizations, environmental organizations, and other local stakeholders can help to provide regular programming that celebrates local culture, honors existing rituals, and builds on other community events. Park bulletin boards and online calendars should be regularly updated with programming information to keep local residents informed about these community activities.