The condition of local parks and playgrounds often set the tone for an entire neighborhood. However, the funding for maintaining these areas is frequently the first to be squeezed out of struggling municipalities' budgets. Many cities and towns enlist volunteer to maintain green spaces. Families can inquire about volunteer opportunities with the local parks and recreation department or search on the Keep America Beautiful website.
While group projects to paint a playground, or de-litter from a park can transform a neighborhood in an afternoon, it takes continued care from neighbors to keep the space safe and inviting.
Even small gestures, such as picking up a piece of trash from the playground or moving a fallen branch off of the sidewalk, can not only contribute to maintaining green spaces, but also help children see their own roles in caring for their communities.
