Friends of Grand Rapids Parks engages our community in enhancing our city’s parks, trees, and green spaces through volunteerism, park activation, philanthropy, and urban forestry.
During the 2008 recession, budget cuts to the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department led to declining park maintenance. A group of neighbors united to address these needs, founding Friends of Grand Rapids Parks. Initially, volunteers focused on basic park maintenance to keep spaces open for children citywide.
Today, we work in partnership with the city’s thriving parks department to meet Master Plan goals by creating stewards for parks and trees.
During the recession, budget cuts to the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department led to declining park maintenance. A group of neighbors united to address these needs, founding Friends of Grand Rapids Parks. Initially, volunteers focused on basic park maintenance to keep spaces open for children citywide.
Friends’ focus shifted to community forestry with the success of the urban forest project, which became a major portion of the budget in 2019.
Friends relaunched Adopt-A-Park programming and invasive species control in 2022.
Friends received a $5 million USFS grant through the bi-partisan IRA USFS Community and Urban Forestry program.
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks partners with the community to support parks, trees, and trails in Grand Rapids. By working together to restore native plants and wildlife habitats, grow an urban forest, and build trails, we provide opportunities to connect with nature now and into the future.
A thriving, nature-connected city where all can access the benefits of the outdoors.
For people and the planet
With our team and the community
In parks, trees, green champions, and our team
Into parks and trails
An essential need for the well-being of all
What will it take to achieve our goals by the end of 2029? $6.8 to $12.3 million!
Restore 864 acres of urban natural areas through community powered habitat restoration plans, ensuring these vital green spaces thrive for generations to come.
Plant 5,000 new trees and empower residents with 1,000 more through our community giveaway program, prioritizing neighborhoods that need them most. Together, we’re building a greener, healthier city block by block.
Make nature accessible to all by expanding our trail network. Our goal: ensure half of Grand Rapids residents can access natural surface trails within a 10-block walk from their homes.
Collaborate with City officials and community partners to acquire and develop new parks and recreational spaces that serve our growing community’s needs.
Create vibrant, welcoming spaces through innovative programming and community engagement, making our parks and trails true centers of neighborhood life.
Take a look back at our impact through the years and see how your support creates lasting change in our community.
Sign up for updates and see how your support transforms green spaces every day.
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is a federally recognized 501c3 non-profit organization. EIN 26-1406547
