About Friends

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.

Our Story

Our Journey to Stewardship

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.

A diverse group of people pose happily around a newly planted tree on a city sidewalk. Some are wearing green shirts with a logo. A sign nearby reads TREE WORK – Friends of Grand Rapids Parks. A brick building is in the background.

Our Mission

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.

Our Vision

A thriving, nature-connected city where all can access the benefits of the outdoors.

Our Values

Care

For people and the planet

Collaboration

With our team and the community

Growth

In parks, trees, green champions, and our team

Welcoming All

Into parks and trails

Play

An essential need for the well-being of all

2025-2029 Strategic Goals

Transforming Grand Rapids' Green Spaces

What will it take to achieve our goals by the end of 2029? $6.8 to $12.3 million!

Preserve Our Natural Resources

Restore 864 acres of urban natural areas through community powered habitat restoration plans, ensuring these vital green spaces thrive for generations to come.

Four people are planting a tree in a grassy area near a street. One person in a yellow vest is adjusting the tree while another assists. Others hold shovels, ready to help. The scene is sunny, with trees and a house in the background.
Grow Our Urban Forest

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.

Connect Our Community

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.

Two people work together planting a tree on a grassy roadside. A man in a blue plaid shirt shovels dirt, while a woman in a gray sweater adjusts the tree. A parked car and green trees are in the background.
Expand Green Spaces

Collaborate with City officials and community partners to acquire and develop new parks and recreational spaces that serve our growing community’s needs.

Activate Our Parks

Create vibrant, welcoming spaces through innovative programming and community engagement, making our parks and trails true centers of neighborhood life.

Our Sustainability Partners

Impact Reports

Take a look back at our impact through the years and see how your support creates lasting change in our community.

2024 Impact Report
2023 Impact Report
Get Social with Friends!