City Parks Foundation

Connecting People & Parks

City Parks Foundation is the only independent, nonprofit organization to offer programming in parks throughout the five boroughs of New York City.

The Organization was founded in 1989 to support the vast majority of New York City parks without access to private resources. By creating arts, sports and educational programs in over 750 public parks, and by encouraging community development within public parks as a focal point, we help to revitalize not only parks but also the neighborhoods that surround them.

Our programs and community-building initiatives now reach more than 600,000 New Yorkers each year, contributing to the renewal of neighborhoods throughout New York City with a particular focus on some of the city’s most underserved areas. In all of its programming and activities, City Parks Foundation partners with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to improve neighborhood parks and the communities they serve.

The Education Department connects teachers, students and families to local parks, waterfront areas & recreation centers by providing hands-on programs that meet specific community needs and public educational standards. In the last few years, this department has expanded programs to include technology initiatives, health programs and open events to the public.

Our Arts programs run year-round, peaking during the summer and spanning the genres of popular, spoken word and world music, dance, theater, readings and puppetry, presented in public parks and nearly all free.

See you in the park!

Questions?  Comments?  Want to submit photos or comments from City Parks events?  Email Blog@cityparksfoundation.org!