The Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) is committed to providing equitable access to outstanding recreational, natural, and cultural experiences that enhance the happiness, health, and well-being of all Atlantans... but we cannot do it alone!

DPR relies on collaboration and partnerships to help us fulfill the ambitious vision laid out in our 10-year comprehensive plan, Activate ATL: Recreation & Parks for All. When you decide to partner with DPR, you’re investing in a brighter, greener, healthier, and safer future for our young people, seniors, and everyone in between.

Non-profit organizations, community groups, foundations, and businesses big and small are invited to partner with us to enhance and improve parks and recreation centers, provide recreational and cultural opportunities, and preserve natural areas in Atlanta.

DPR is committed to partnerships that align with our overall mission, vision, values, and those of Mayor’s administration that enhance the daily lives of all Atlantans through parks and recreation. We actively seek partnerships that:

1. Increase access to parks, recreation, and natural spaces
2. Create safe spaces
3. Empower youth for a successful future
4. Promote healthy lifestyles for all ages
5. Serve our neighbors and city
6. Connect Atlantans with nature
7. Elevate arts, culture, and play
8. Increase access to fresh, healthy food, and
9. Prepare our city for a sustainable and climate-ready future

Are you ready to explore a PARKnership with DPR? Get started by clicking the link below and completing the City of Atlanta’s Partnership Form (completing the form does not guarantee partnership).

PARTNER WITH US!

When prompted, please ensure to indicate that your project aligns with Parks & Recreation.

Friends of the Park Partnerships

Friends of the Park groups are dedicated to stewarding and improving local parks and recreational facilities through volunteering, fundraising, and capital improvements. These partnerships are managed by the local nonprofit Park Pride. Visit their website to learn more and to join, create, or support a local Friends of the Park group.

Parks & Recreation Improvement Projects

If you, your neighborhood/community group, Friends of the Park group, nonprofit, corporation, or foundation have an idea and/or funding for an improvement in a park or recreation center, we’d love to hear from you! Improvement projects should align with DPR’s priority partnership focus areas (above) and have documented community support. DPR invites a wide variety of improvement projects. Ideas include invasive plant species removal, wayfinding signage and trails, new benches or community gathering areas, nature-play features and playgrounds, fitness equipment and much more. Get started on bringing your idea to life by reviewing the
Park + Rec. Improvement Projects: Process + Permitting page.

Programming & Services Partnerships

This type of partnership involves a nonprofit, civic group, business, or philanthropic organization providing a service or program to Atlantans, at no cost to participants or the city*. Programming and services offered should align with DPR’s priority partnership focus areas (above). By leveraging our resources and working together, we can create a greater impact than could be accomplished alone.   

*If you wish to become a vendor and receive payment for services, please register as a City of Atlanta Supplier and contact the relevant DPR Office.

Donations & Sponsorships

The Department of Parks & Recreation relies on public/private partnerships to amplify the impact of our budgeted resources; the support of foundations, nonprofits, businesses, and individual donors is critical to delivering the wide range of amenities, programs, and services that directly impact the quality of life of Atlantans young and old. Donations or sponsorships can be made to advance DPR’s priority partnership focus areas (above), and can include park improvements, recreation center enhancements and expansions, land acquisitions, greenspace maintenance and management, recreational programs and services, events, technology enhancements at recreation centers, professional development of staff, and more. We’d love to discuss how your priorities align with ours!

Volunteer

Make a positive impact in Atlanta and volunteer in a local park with Park Pride and Friends of the Park groups. You can join a free volunteer event, or work with Park Pride to create a custom volunteer experience, an ideal option for businesses or corporations (or other large groups) looking to make a deeper impact.
Learn more at parkpride.org/volunteer.

DPR's partnership models foster collaborative relationships that connect communities, drive investments for vibrant and active greenspaces, and increase recreational opportunities for all to enjoy! Explore the models below and discover how we can work together to create lasting impacts on community well-being through parks and recreation.

Contact:
If you have questions, please reach out to 
Rachel Maher
Deputy Commissioner, Partnerships + Enterprise
ramaher@atlantaga.gov