Partnerships

Non-profit organizations, conservancies, community groups and businesses are invited and encouraged to partner with the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) to enhance and improve parks, increase recreational and cultural opportunities and preserve natural areas in Austin.

At Austin Parks and Recreation we are committed to partnerships that align with our overall mission, vision, values, and provide benefit to the public and the Austin parks system. We actively seek partnerships with non-profit organizations, conservancies and businesses for park development, maintenance, management and programming.

Partnership Goals

Enhance and expand public use of Parks’ grounds and facilities
Encourage active recreation and healthy lifestyles
Improve environmental stewardship through public participation and education
Celebrate arts, culture, and history to build community
Maximize public benefit at minimum taxpayer cost

Types of Partnerships

WHO CAN PARTNER WITH PARKS?

There are many different types of partnerships:

Neighborhood/Community partnerships - Neighborhood, Community and "Friends of" groups that serve as advocates and stewards for their local park or facility

Non-profit/Conservancy partnerships - non-profits and conservancies that are mission aligned with PARD and dedicated to a particular park or facility, or specific types of amenities or programs throughout the parks system.

Business partnerships - Corporations and local businesses that provide a wide range of activities including: park improvements, maintenance and management; programs and services; and donations and sponsorships.

Partnership Examples

We have over 135 partners.

Current Nonprofit & Community Partners

Current Neighborhood Partners (Adopt-a-Park)

The list below categorizes existing partnerships according to their focus areas.

Park/Facility Operations and Management
Park Development, Maintenance and Activation
Arts and culture
Active Recreation & Healthy Lifestyles
Education

Successful Partnerships

In 2015 our non-profit and conservancy partners invested nearly $9,000,000 in park improvements in the Austin Parks System and provided high quality programs. We could not do what we do at Parks and Recreation without the active support of our nonprofit partners and conservancies. Here are a few of the key organizations that support our mission: