Communities of Practice

Ecosystems for Engagement: Parks as Social Infrastructure is a workshop series that equips park practitioners with actionable strategies to drive meaningful community engagement across all levels—from neighborhood residents to local government agencies. Through practical frameworks and cross-sector insights, this series will demonstrate how to leverage parks and green spaces as vital social infrastructure. 

Program Structure

This Community of Practice is an opportunity to learn case studies and meet peers who are committed to advancing community engagement and stewardship for parks and green spaces. This workshop series will provide a curated blend of: 

1. Interactive virtual workshops (90 minutes) to enhance local capacity for impactful practices; 
2. Subject matter experts and case studies to strengthen your local strategies; 
3. Peer support and networking to increase knowledge exchange and deepen collaboration. 

Series Format:

Each 90-minute workshop features panel presentations and small group discussions. You’re welcome to join any session that interests you—attendance for all sessions is not required.

We will meet on Thursdays from 2:00pm-3:30pm ET, offering high priority workshop topics on the following dates:

• September 17, 2026 — Local Action: Starting with Neighbors

• November 5, 2026 — Leadership from Within: Empowering Resident Changemakers

• January 14, 2027 — Collective Action: Activating Community Partnerships

• March 11, 2027 — Making Civic Participation Accessible

• May 6, 2027 — Influencing the Future of Parks through Policy

Register by September 4

Please contact us with questions about this offering.