Program areas at Tacoma Parks Foundation
Program Support- The Foundation works in partnership with the Metropolitan Park District of Tacoma (MPT) to support mission-priority programs. These include the arts, youth sports and development, fitness and wellness, specialized recreation, heritage and special events. Donations help fill the gap and sustain these programs. For example our community arts programs provide free access to arts in low income communities for health, learning and community, providing access to underserved children and families with opportunities to access league sports play, arts programming, environmental education and exploration, and more.The Foundation also raises and invests endowment funds for sustainable programming.
Financial aid, known as the Active Kids Fund, removes barriers by reducing MetroParks program registration fees by 50-75% for hundreds of qualifying families.Through the Active Kids Fund, Children can enjoy activities such as swimming classes,nature education, sports leagues and performing arts lessons. The fund helps youth who otherwise would not have the financial means to get active, build skills, make healthy choices, expand personal expression and experience scientific discovery.Verification of income and proof of residency are required. Every year requests increase and Metro Parks and the Foundation work together to meet the need.
Park Maintenance - The Foundation supports parks and parks projects throughout the district. Individual parks have special significance their surrounding communities and the foundation offers a way for neighbors to give to their parks. Donors can give to the Chip-In! Program which engages thousands of volunteer park stewards every year who remove invasive species, replace natural areas, clean up garbage, and patrol to maintain safety. The Foundation also manages capital campaigns and leverages district funds to enhance communities and park facilities.