The Houston Parks Board creates, improves and protects parkland for Houston
Background:
The Houston Parks Board, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, was commissioned by means of city ordinance in 1976 in response to a request by Houston’s major foundations and civic leaders who wanted to contribute to the City’s park system through an organization that would represent their needs and desires. Since its inception, the Houston Parks Board has raised and leveraged millions of dollars and touched at least 75% of the City’s parkland either through acquisitions and/or capital improvements.
Organization:
The Houston Parks Board, made up of 20 mayoral-appointed, volunteer Board of Directors and 4 full-time staff members, works with the City of Houston, Harris County Precincts, Harris County Flood Control District, other non-profit organizations and community groups in fulfilling its mission. It seeks donations of land and other assets, manages capital projects, undertakes studies for the benefit of the park system, invests and manages special trust accounts, advises the Mayor, City Council and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) on park matters, and raises awareness of the need for adequate parks and open spaces for Houston residents.
Activities:
As a result of the flexibility with which Houston Parks Board operates, it has been involved in a wide range of activities related to the expansion and improvement of the parks system. Houston Parks Board is funded primarily by the generous donations of private donors including individuals, families, neighborhood groups, foundations and corporations. In an average year Houston Parks Board manages approximately $4 million in private funds for park projects and programs. The Houston Parks Board’s primary programs are its Park Creation Campaign (acquiring parkland to create new and expand existing parks) and it’s Park Improvement Projects (creating new amenities in new or existing parks and/or renovation existing facilities in partnership with community groups, interest groups, non-profit organizations, City of Houston and Harris County.
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