ADOPT A PARK PROGRAM
The Parks and Recreation Department has identified specific parks and green spaces that will be part of the Adopt a Park program. Large parks may have specific areas designated for different groups
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
- Bandshell
- Centennial Park
- Clay Cliffs Nature Area
- Hanchett Park
- Hemlock Park (Sections)
- Holland Park
- Industrial Park Fields
- Library Park
- Linden Street Park
- Mitchell Creek Park
- Northend Riverside Park
- Osceola Pavilion
- River Street Park
- Riverwalk (Sections)
- Swede Hill Park
- Vogel Field
- Win Kellum
- Downtown Flower and Planting
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM?
To enhance the quality of our parks, the City of Big Rapids Recreation Department, encourages volunteers to assist with litter and debris removal. Adopting a park is a way for local groups, individuals and organizations to get involved in the community. Both the City and the group involved work together to create a safe, attractive environment with recognition to those adopting a park.
WHAT ARE THE GOALS?
- To save taxpayers' dollars by providing assistance to the cleaning and beautification of the City's parks
- To promote stewardships and volunteerism within the community
- To improve the safety of the City's parks
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO ADOPT A PARK?
- Fill out an Application and set up a meeting with the Recreation Director to discuss adoption details and create a work plan based on the park and group's need.
- Complete tasks (pre-determined by staff) during one park season (i.e. end of April – early November).
- Complete one service project a season
WHO CAN ADOPT A PARK?
Any local group such as families, individuals, school or scout organizations, businesses or other organizations
There are multiple tasks and service projects that can be completed during the program, which enhance the park's attractiveness. Some examples would be, but are not limited to the following:
- Litter Pickup
- Graffiti Removal
- Flower Planting
- Landscaping and Landscape bed maintenance (including weeding and watering)
- Pruning
- Spread bard dust/wood chips or crusher dust
- Wash play equipment
- Painting
- Remove invasive plants
- Clearing brush
VOLUNTEER RESPONISBILITIES
- Completing and Submitting an Application to Adopt a Park
- Obtaining the required supplies and materials from the Department during normal business hours (8:00 am – 5:00 pm), Monday-Friday
- Keeping track of volunteer hours for each project and submitting the proper paperwork after each task or service project
- Insuring that youth participants are supervised by an adult
- Place filled trash bags near existing trash containers for pick up and disposal by the Department
- Return all used materials and supplies furnished by the Department within one week following clean up, unless other arrangements are made
- Turn in a completed Clean-Up Report to the Department after the service is completed.
DEPARTMENT'S RESPONSIBILITY
- Erecting a sign with the group, family or organization's name or acronym
- Providing forms and envelopes for reports
- Supplying certain materials and equipment when necessary (i.e. trash bags, paint supplies, flowers, mulch, etc.) NOTE- volunteers are encouraged to bring their own tools when possible
- Removing filled trash bags from the premises and removing large, heavy, or hazardous items when found in the park
- Following up on any necessary repairs with volunteer contact (i.e. notes made on Clean-Up Report)