Simmons Announces Creation Of Stamford Parks Community Partnership

Information via city of Stamford

STAMFORD, CT — Mayor Caroline Simmons on Wednesday announced the creation of the Stamford Parks Community Partnership, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to foster stronger collaboration between the city, local businesses and residents in developing and maintaining Stamford’s parks system and recreational areas.

According to a news release from the city, the partnership will leverage private funding to ensure Stamford’s parks remain accessible and sustainable for future generations and it already has several corporate commitments, including from Wellbuilt Company, Henkel, Philip Morris International, and the Ashforth Company.

There will also be a dollar for dollar match up to $100,000 commitment from Dalio Education.

"Parks are at the heart of our city, providing vital spaces for recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature," Simmons said in a news release. "My vision is for all Stamford residents to have access to a quality park within a 10-minute walk from where they live and funding from the Stamford Parks Community Partnership will fund projects that ensure we are equitably funding parks across our city. We invite residents, businesses and local organizations to spread the word and participate in this exciting initiative."

The Stamford Parks Community Partnership will serve as a platform for mobilizing resources and encouraging public-private partnerships to support the city's parks, the city said.

The "Adopt-a-Green" and "Adopt-a-Park" programs will allow for capital investments and beautification efforts in parks throughout Stamford. The partnership will also allow for the expansion of Stamford’s Youth Service Corps Program, a collaboration with Domus and their Domus Works program, providing young adults with employment opportunities focused on park beautification projects.

The Stamford Parks Community Partnership will be led by a board of directors, with Natalie Coard from Charter Oak Communities as the hair and Stephanie Odenath from Wellbuilt Company as the vice chair. Board members include Gabriel Alonso-Mendoza; Nette Compton; Leah Kagan; David Kooris; Jennifer Matheny; RJ Mercede; Gabriela Koc; Carlton Thompson; Angela Adetola; and Hank Ashforth.

For more information about the Stamford Parks Community Partnership and how to get involved, visit the partnership website.