
1.2M
Residents of Mecklenburg County who benefit mentally, physically and emotionally from access to safe and accessible parks, greenways, open spaces and recreation
30
Years serving the Mecklenburg County community
500+
Youth sports scholarships funded
$500K
Funds raised and given in support of summer camps, therapeutic recreation, and park professional education scholarships

Dedicated to Transforming Mecklenburg County
We work to improve the quality of life for residents by preserving, promoting and enhancing parks, greenways, open spaces, active play, and recreational opportunities that celebrate local identity and foster sustainability.
We collaborate with community partners, engage residents, and secure resources to create safe, equitable, and connected recreational spaces that inspire healthy living, foster environmental stewardship, and strengthen community bonds.
"Parks are the heart of a community, designed purely for recreation, and enjoyment. I love that they exist solely to conserve green space, enhance well-being, and bring people together. Few spaces are as intentionally dedicated to community, which makes their care and preservation all the more important."
- Emily Condon
Stay Updated on Our Latest News
Grier Heights Hub to Get Much-Needed Renovations
Grier Heights Hub to Get Much-Needed Renovations The Naomi Drenan Recreation Center and Skate Park is being prepped for a series…
A Legacy of Transformation: Lee Jones’ Trailblazing Journey with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation
A Legacy of Transformation: Lee Jones' Trailblazing Journey with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation After two decades of…
National Trails Day: Embrace the Great Outdoors on the First Saturday in June
National Trails Day, held every year on the first Saturday in June, is all about getting together to celebrate and care for our…
Paths to Partnership: Celebrating our Sponsors
Beyond saying “thank you” to new and returning sponsors, the Sponsor Celebration at historic Pearl Street Park provided an…
A Place in History: Pearl Street Park
A Place in History: Pearl Street Park Nestled in what is now known as Midtown Charlotte, Pearl Street Park speaks to our past,…
Keeping Up with County Greenways
It seems as though no member of Charlotte’s Fourth Estate has documented Mecklenburg County Greenway progress like the folks at…
Focus on Funding and the Future
Focus on Funding and the Future This is a most critical time of year for county programs and departments that depend on public…
Charlotte Residents Preview McColl Park Design Concepts
Charlotte Residents Preview McColl Park Design Concepts
Happy Holidays from Partners for Parks
Partners and Friends — From us to you, here's to a merry and bright Holiday Season! Thanks to your continued support, Partners for…

Explore Our Projects
For us, each park and project is a legacy we leave behind for future generations to further our goal of breathing life into our community. Each effort is an investment in the natural beauty of our region.
Partners for Parks is the pathway to a healthier and more livable and natural future that encourages all residents of our region to experience the joy of parks, nature, and recreation.
"For me, parks are a chance to look around and understand the community you live in. They also give everyone an opportunity to play, relax, escape, connect, and be happy."
- Jerry Lee
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Partners for Parks is a nonprofit organization based in Charlotte, North Carolina that supports and strengthens our region’s parks, greenways, and open spaces through partnerships, community engagement, and programming. We work to ensure that everyone—across every neighborhood—has equitable access to vibrant, welcoming public spaces.
We work alongside community members, local leaders, and organizations to:
- Support park-based programs and community events
- Build partnerships that expand park access and park improvements
- Strengthen community connections through public spaces
- Promote equitable, safe, and welcoming parks across the region
- Help parks reflect and celebrate local identity
Partners for Parks serves the greater Charlotte-Mecklenburg region, with a focus on strengthening parks, greenways, and recreational programming in neighborhoods that have historically had less access to quality park amenities.
Partners for Parks is an independent nonprofit organization that works in partnership with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and other community partners. We help amplify and support public parks through programming, partnerships, and community-driven initiatives.
We believe parks and greenways are more than places to play, they are essential community infrastructure. Parks support:
- Physical and mental health
- Social connection and belonging
- Environmental stewardship and climate resilience
- Equity and neighborhood reinvestment
- Youth development and family well-being
There are many ways to get involved, including:
- Donate – become a sponsor today!
- Volunteer – reach out to us at info@partnersforparks.org to get started.
- Attend a Partners for Parks event
- Sponsor a program
- Partner with us as a business, nonprofit, or neighborhood group
- Sign up for updates and sharing opportunities with your network
Volunteer opportunities vary throughout the year and may include park beautification days, community events, and support roles for programs. The best way to learn about current volunteer opportunities is to sign up for our email list or follow us on social media.
Yes! Partners for Parks welcomes partnerships with neighborhood associations, nonprofits, schools, community groups, and local businesses. If your organization wants to collaborate on an event, program, or park-related initiative, we’d love to connect. Contact us here.
You can stay informed by:
- Sign up for our newsletter
-
Follow Partners for Parks on socials!
- Stay in touch! Explore our website to stay up to date on events and announcements.
You can donate online through our website. Donations support community programs, partnerships, and efforts that strengthen parks and public spaces across Charlotte.
Yes. Partners for Parks is a nonprofit organization, and donations are typically tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. (For specific tax questions, we recommend consulting a tax professional.)
Donations help fund:
- Park improvements, renovations and amenities
- Youth sports scholarships
- Recreation events and activities for residents of all ages
- Advocacy for green space throughout Mecklenburg County
Yes. We work with businesses and corporate partners who want to invest in parks and community well-being. Sponsorships can support events, programs, and initiatives that make a measurable impact across Charlotte.
You can reach out through our website contact form or email us directly to request partnership information. We’re happy to share sponsorship opportunities and explore ways to collaborate.
Yes. Equity is central to our mission. We support efforts that ensure all communities, especially those historically underserved, have access to safe, welcoming, well-maintained parks and greenways.
The easiest ways to stay connected are:
- Join our email list
- Follow us on social media
- Attend events
- Volunteer or donate
- Share Partners for Parks opportunities with your community
Your SupportPowers Our Parks
Your donation creates vibrant, safe parks that bring neighbors together and improve quality of life for everyone in Mecklenburg County.


















