$200K In Grants Headed For Marin County Park Projects

SAN RAFAEL, CA — A roundtable group is considering the best ways to use $200,000 in grant money that will soon be awarded to community organizations in Marin County to better connect communities with their parks.

The Parks Equity Roundtable is tasked with helping overcome structural barriers, including considering changes to park fees and reservation policies and helping to develop new programs.

Visitor surveys have found that county-owned regional parks draw more diverse visitors than trail-focused open spaces. County parks can also accommodate social gatherings, which underserved groups identified as a priority.

The group has urged Marin County Parks to focus its grants on equipping youth ambassadors who can build relationships with their peers, connecting with schools and organizations to build new programs and improve overall community engagement.

Community organizations are eligible for a maximum grant of $8,000. Parks officials will be reviewing proposals after the June 2 deadline and delivering recommendations by July. Organizations interested in receiving a grant can apply online.

>> Learn more about the grants here.