Our commitment to inclusivity & equity in our programs Here at Austin Parks Foundation (APF), we’re committed to creating thoughtful and inclusive programming. And we strive to infuse equity into every project, in order to intentionally bring Black, Indigenous and People of Color neighbors to the table, and include them in the decision-making process. We understand no one can be …
Celebrating Juneteenth: Austin’s Historically Black Parks
As we celebrate Juneteenth this year, amidst a restored sense of how urgently our city must face the truth of our past and work to improve our present and future, we wanted to take a step into history with you. We’ve gathered some links, photos and stories that we hope will help illustrate just how hard Black Austinites have had …
Project Playback: Helping the Georgian Acres Neighborhood Get Their Park
The Georgian Acres neighborhood had the highest amount of children and multi-housing units without a park nearby. For many years, residents of the neighborhood have been advocating for the park they were missing. Georgian Acres Neighborhood Association (GANA) was determined to provide their fellow neighbors with a park they would be proud of. They envisioned a new park that would …
Investing in Parks: Austin’s Parks + Trails as Economic Drivers
On April 7th, the civic world in Austin seemed to halt for a few brief moments. John Hockenyos, an Austin based economist, delivered a less-than-rosy economic impact update to Austin’s City Council in the wake of COVID-19. “I’m hoping that is a slightly pessimistic scenario, but I think it is a realistic scenario,” Hockenyos said. The scenario predicted Great Depression …
Art in the Parks: 6 Unique Public Art Pieces in Austin’s Parks
From Blanton Art Museum to the beloved, but newly-housed, Graffiti Park at Castle Hill, there’s no denying that Austinites appreciate good art when they see it. But did you know some of the best art is in the parks? These pieces help us deepen our connection to or understanding of the parks’ history, view the parks and amenities in new …
The Great Indoors: Nature Films for Adventuring in Place
×Hey there! COVID-19 has changed how we do things, and your safety is our priority. Please keep social distancing best practices in mind if you choose to visit parks, trails and green spaces. Thanks, y’all! We’re all dreaming of a world where we can flock to the world’s most beautiful natural spaces. But since we’re unable to travel, your friends …
Active Transportation + Project Connect in the Time of COVID-19
×Hey there! COVID-19 has changed how we do things, and your safety is our priority. Please keep social distancing best practices in mind if you choose to visit parks, trails and green spaces. Thanks, y’all! Written by Thomas Visco, Advocacy Manager at Austin Parks Foundation Last year, Austin City Council approved the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP). This set an …
Nature Play Activity: Create Your Very Own Fairy Park!
Presented by Little Hummingbird Society Written by Ladye Anne Wofford, Chief Mission Officer at Austin Parks Foundation Fairy Gardens are miniature gardens complete with structures and living plants that have been gaining huge popularity as home and garden decorations. In fact, the Zilker Botanical Garden even hosts a Woodland Faerie Trail Exhibit every year! Tiny houses, chairs, lawns and ponds …
Nature Play as Development with the Rivera Family
Presented by Little Hummingbird SocietyWritten by Barry Rivera, Volunteer Manager at Austin Parks Foundation In addition to just getting kids outdoors, nature play offers some cognitive and behavioral benefits to kids of all ages. The good news is – nature play is the perfect way to combine sensory, imaginary and motor skill development all in one! Sensory Experiences For smaller …
6 Fun Nature Play Activities with the Rivera Family
×Hey there! COVID-19 has changed how we do things, and your safety is our priority. Please keep social distancing best practices in mind if you choose to visit parks, trails and green spaces. Thanks, y’all!Presented by Little Hummingbird SocietyWritten by Barry Rivera, Volunteer Manager at Austin Parks Foundation It’s a common misconception that in order to entertain kids you need …