Do you want to make a difference in your community and support or care for a park near you? At Partnerships for Parks, we help people, organizations, and government work together to support NYC parks, gardens, trees, and other green spaces.

At this introductory workshop, learn how you and your neighbors can come together to support and improve your community green spaces!

Topics will include:

• Why volunteers are so important for vibrant, thriving parks
• Who you need to know in NYC Parks
• How neighbors, coworkers, or community groups can spruce up a park with an “It’s My Park” project
• Ways to join together with neighbors who also care about your park
• Which resources are available to help you

Featured speakers include: 

• Joe Block, Deputy Administrator, NYC Parks

As a Deputy Administrator, Joe is responsible for managing and overseeing the operations, inspections, and maintenance of Forest and Highland Park. Prior to his current role he managed Queens District’s 11 & 13 and was previously an Outreach Coordinator for Partnerships for Parks.

• Sabina Saragoussi, Director, Partnerships for Parks

A Brooklyn native, Sabina Saragoussi has devoted her career to creating a more livable and equitable New York City for over a decade. Since 2013, she has served as Director of Partnerships for Parks, managing the program’s multi-million dollar budget, overseeing the implementation of PfP’s programs, and guiding strategic planning and fundraising. She is dedicated to the transformation of NYC green spaces, and her favorite work brings her out to meet the many people making an impact on their parks and neighborhoods.

• Stefanie Gutierrez, Senior Outreach Coordinator, Partnerships for Parks

Stefanie first started her career with NYC Parks as an Urban Park Ranger, connecting New Yorkers to the natural world through environmental education, outdoor recreation, wildlife management, and active conservation. She continues to educate and inform communities as an Outreach Coordinator in Staten Island. Stefanie acts as the first point of contact for park groups & volunteers in her districts’ areas – helping them connect to the appropriate people and resources to transform their green spaces.

• Roxanne Delgado, Leader, Friends of Pelham Parkway

Formed in 2017, Friends of Pelham Parkway is an all volunteer community group that supports the parkway through monthly cleanups and tabling to educate and encourage all users to appreciate and care for the park. Just recently, the group received a grant and raised funds to put up an outdoor bulletin board and develop a community rose garden. In March 2018, Partnerships for Parks recognized Friends of Pelham Parkway’s outstanding efforts at the annual It’s My Park Awards. Several local newspapers and media outlets have also highlighted the groups’ events and advocacy.

Meet staff members that can help you get started, network with other interested community members, and hear from experienced volunteers who are already doing amazing work in their parks.

For more information or questions, please email relzinga@cityparksfoundation.org.