about friends
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is committed to engaging our community in the betterment of our city’s
parks, trees, and green spaces through volunteerism, park activation, philanthropy and urban forestry.
A Brief History
During the recession of 2008, the City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department experienced budget cuts, leading to downfalls in park maintenance.
A group of neighbors recognized that they had the ability to band together and address these needs – and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks (or Friends, as we often call it) was born. At this time, volunteers often invested in basic park maintenance to keep these spaces open for children throughout the city.
Today, the City of Grand Rapids has a strong and thriving parks department, and Friends’ role has changed. We work in partnership with the department to meet the goals of the city’s Master Plan by creating stewards for parks and trees.
Our four pillars of action are volunteerism, urban forestry, park activation, and philanthropy.
learn about our programs →
Our Mission
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks partners with the community to support parks, trees, and trails in Grand Rapids. By working together to manage natural resources, grow an urban forest, and build trails, Friends provide opportunities to connect with nature now and into the future.
Our Vision
A thriving, nature-connected city where all can access the benefits of the outdoors.
Our Strategic Goals
●Healthy Parks: est. $4.8 million adopt all 75+ parks & green spaces for cleaning and maintenance; develop and implement a work plan for invasive species control in 600 acres of natural areas in parks
●10,000 Trees: est. $12 million filling in half of the estimated 20,000 tree vacancies in the public right of way with an emphasis on neighborhoods with high tree vacancies and giving away another 5,000 trees for private property
●The Grand Loop: est. $2.3 million ensures 90%* of residents are no more than 10 blocks away from a dirt trail or bike park maximizing accessible trails for all
Our Values
Care
for people &
the planet
Collaboration
with team &
community
Growth
in parks, trees, green champions, and team
J.E.D.I.
justice, equity, diversity, & inclusion in the outdoors
Play
is essential for the
well-being of all