World Bicycle Day is a global celebration of the humble yet powerful two-wheeled vehicle that has left an indelible mark on human history. Recognized by the United Nations and observed on June 3rd each year, this special day aims to promote bicycle use as a means of fostering sustainable development, improving health and well-being, and fostering a sense of community and connectivity.

The bicycle has long been hailed as a symbol of freedom, efficiency, and simplicity. It requires nothing more than human power, making it an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel-dependent vehicles. As we face pressing environmental challenges, the bicycle emerges as a sustainable solution, reducing carbon emissions, easing traffic congestion, and contributing to cleaner air and healthier cities.

Beyond its environmental advantages, cycling offers numerous health benefits. Regular bicycle riding promotes cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, and improves overall physical well-being. It is a low-impact exercise suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an accessible and enjoyable way to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The bicycle serves as a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a sense of community. It encourages social interaction and allows individuals to engage with their surroundings in a unique way. Cycling promotes exploration, enabling us to discover hidden gems within our neighborhoods, appreciate nature's beauty, and forge new friendships. By embracing the bicycle, we can create more livable, connected, and inclusive communities.

The National Association of Park Foundations recognizes the importance of supporting safe and fun cycling opportunities. Through our initiatives, we promote the creation of new off-road and on-road cycling paths, ensuring that individuals have access to enjoyable biking experiences. Additionally, we advocate for policies and best practices regarding trail use to maintain safe and enjoyable conditions for all users. By collaborating with local communities and government agencies, we strive to make biking a cherished activity within our parks and natural landscapes.

World Bicycle Day also highlights the importance of promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls through cycling. Historically, access to bicycles has played a transformative role in enhancing mobility, education, and economic opportunities for women. By advocating for equal access to bicycles and encouraging women and girls to embrace cycling, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society.

On this day, let us recognize the significance of education and advocacy in promoting bicycle usage. Governments, organizations, and individuals can work together to invest in cycling infrastructure, develop safety programs, and raise awareness about the benefits of bicycling. By educating communities and advocating for cyclist-friendly policies, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all cyclists.

As World Bicycle Day approaches, it is a time to celebrate the enduring impact of the bicycle as a symbol of sustainable mobility, health, and community. Whether it's commuting to work, exploring new paths, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, the bicycle continues to inspire and unite us. Embrace the power of pedals and join the global movement toward a greener, healthier, and more connected world. On this special day, let us pedal together toward a brighter future for all.

Greetings, fellow cyclists! As we embark on our two-wheeled adventures, let's take a moment to reflect on the importance of making our shared trails safer and fairer for everyone involved. In this column, we'll delve into the world of trail etiquette, sharing some chuckle-worthy anecdotes and practical tips to ensure a harmonious experience for all trail users. So, buckle up (or rather, clip in), and let's pedal towards a safer and more enjoyable trail journey.

Picture this: you're cruising along the trail, wind in your helmet, when suddenly a pedestrian pops up, oblivious to your presence. Cue the panic brake! To prevent such mishaps, let's talk about the art of trail etiquette and how we can bridge the pedestrian-cyclist divide.

First and foremost, remember that pedestrians have the right of way. Yes, they're the kings and queens of the trail. So, give them a wide berth, ring your bell (or bust out your best dolphin impression), and offer a friendly "excuse me" when passing. Remember, a smile goes a long way!

Now, let's talk about sticking to the designated paths. We get it—you're an adventurous soul yearning to explore uncharted territory. But trust us, the trail gods frown upon those who veer off the beaten path. So, resist the temptation to go off-trail like an explorer on a quest. Stick to the script, folks!

And please, for the love of all things bike-related, observe the posted rules. Those signs aren't just pretty decorations; they're there to keep us all safe and sound. Ignoring them won't make you a trail rebel; it'll just make you the person others grumble about in hushed tones. Let's not be that person, shall we?

Now, let's move on to communication—because let's face it, cyclists aren't exactly known for their vocal prowess. But fear not! We have some tips to help you navigate the trail with style and grace.

Let your bike do the talking. Install a trusty bell or horn to announce your arrival in style. Ding ding! Suddenly, you'll be the Pied Piper of the trail, spreading cheer and giving fair warning to all in your path. Plus, it's a great way to express your inner child.

But what about passing? Ah, the delicate art of overtaking. Here's the golden rule: communicate your intentions. Politely holler, "On your left!" or "On your right!" as you approach your fellow trail enthusiasts. It's a simple yet effective way to let them know you're coming, avoiding any unexpected swerves or startled jumps.

Remember, when interacting with pedestrians or other trail users, a little eye contact can go a long way. Establish that connection, and you'll find a mutual understanding that ensures a smoother trail experience for everyone.

Finally, let's not forget the need for responsible speed management. We all love the exhilaration of a fast ride, but we must adapt our speed to the trail conditions, congestion, and visibility. Slow down in crowded areas or when visibility is limited. Uphill climbers and individuals with limited mobility will appreciate your considerate attitude.

As we wrap up this trail talk, let's remember that we have the power to make a difference. By embracing trail etiquette, communicating effectively, and being mindful of our speed, we can create a safer and fairer environment for all trail users. Let's pedal together towards a future where the trails are filled with laughter, camaraderie, and an unwavering commitment to mutual respect.

So, fellow cyclists, let's lead by example and embark on our trail adventures with a dash of humor, a sprinkle of kindness, and a whole lot of consideration for others. Together, we can transform our shared trails into spaces where safety, fairness, and enjoyment coexist harmoniously. Let's make every pedal stroke count and create a legacy of trail camaraderie that will inspire future generations of cyclists. Happy trails, everyone!

Pedestrian trail users have responsibilities towards creating a harmonious trails system too! Read all about it in our companion blogpost, "Promoting Safety and Harmony on Shared Trails".

Introduction:

Parks and trails are valuable community assets that offer a haven for relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. Unfortunately, these spaces can accumulate litter and suffer wear and tear over time. To address this, park foundations can take the initiative to organize a monthly park clean-up day. These events bring together volunteers who are passionate about preserving and maintaining the beauty of their local parks. In this article, we will explore the benefits of hosting such an event and provide a step-by-step guide to help park foundations launch their own monthly park clean-up day.

Strengthening Community Bonds:

A monthly park clean-up day serves as an excellent opportunity to foster community engagement and connection. By bringing people together from diverse backgrounds, ages, and interests, this event promotes a sense of shared responsibility and ownership over the community's green spaces. Volunteers can interact with one another, fostering new friendships, and creating a stronger, more unified community.

Promoting Environmental Stewardship:

By organizing regular park clean-up days, park foundations demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. These events encourage participants to adopt eco-friendly practices and instill a greater sense of respect for the environment. Volunteers become active participants in preserving and protecting the natural beauty of their local parks, leading to a positive ripple effect throughout the community.

Beautifying Parks and Trails:

Regular maintenance and clean-up are vital to keeping parks and trails aesthetically appealing and safe for visitors. Monthly clean-up days provide an opportunity to address various maintenance tasks such as trash pick-up, light repairs, trail clearing, weeding, and other necessary work. By consistently addressing these issues, park foundations contribute to the overall beauty and functionality of the park, enhancing the experience for all who visit.

Education and Awareness:

In addition to the physical improvements, monthly park clean-up days offer an educational platform to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. Park foundations can organize workshops or informational sessions during these events, educating volunteers about sustainable practices, wildlife preservation, and the ecological significance of the park. By imparting knowledge and understanding, park clean-up days help create a community that is environmentally conscious and proactive.

Getting Started:

To organize a successful monthly park clean-up day, park foundations can follow these steps:

a. Planning and Preparation:

Choose a park that requires regular maintenance and has the potential to benefit from community involvement. Set a recurring date for the clean-up day, such as the first Saturday of every month. Ensure you have the necessary supplies such as gloves, trash bags, rakes, and any specialized equipment.

b. Promoting the Event:

Spread the word about the clean-up day through various channels, including social media, community newsletters, local newspapers, and posters. Engage with schools, local businesses, and community organizations to encourage participation and build a sense of shared responsibility.

c. Volunteer Coordination:

Establish a registration system to keep track of volunteers and their contact information. Assign team leaders or coordinators to oversee different tasks during the clean-up day and provide necessary guidance to volunteers.

d. Task Allocation:

Identify the maintenance tasks required for each clean-up day, such as trash pick-up, weeding, trail clearing, or repairs. Divide the volunteers into teams and assign them specific tasks based on their interests, skills, and physical abilities.

e. Safety Measures:

Ensure the safety of all volunteers by providing safety guidelines and necessary protective equipment. Conduct a safety briefing before the clean-up activities begin. It is important to prioritize the well-being of participants throughout the event.

f. Recognition and Appreciation:

Celebrate the efforts of the volunteers by recognizing their contributions. Express gratitude through certificates, awards, or public acknowledgments to encourage continued participation and to inspire others to get involved.

Members who would like to learn more about organizing and executing a volunteer day in the park can view our recent webinar on the topic. Just log into your account and go here to find "Topic: Carrying Out Your Volunteer Days!". Non-members can purchase a link to view the webinar by sending an email to info@the-napf.org.

Shared trails offer a perfect escape into nature, providing opportunities for exercise and recreation. However, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all trail users requires responsible behavior and adherence to certain guidelines. In this opinion column, I want to emphasize two essential aspects: staying to the right side of the trail and keeping our furry friends leashed. By following these practices, we can create a safer and more harmonious environment for everyone to enjoy.

First and foremost, staying to the right side of the trail is not just a matter of etiquette; it's a crucial safety measure. Imagine a bustling trail with cyclists, runners, walkers, and skateboarders. Now, envision the chaos that could arise if everyone meandered aimlessly, disregarding their surroundings. Staying to the right side ensures a smooth flow of traffic, allowing faster-moving individuals like cyclists and skateboarders to pass safely on the left. It prevents unexpected encounters and enables better communication, making the trail experience more enjoyable for all.

Moreover, encouraging children to imagine an imaginary line down the middle of the trail can be an effective way to teach them trail safety. By envisioning this line and reminding them to stay to the right side of it, we instill good habits and promote a sense of responsibility. Not only does this practice enhance their own safety, but it also cultivates an understanding of the importance of sharing spaces and considering others.

Now let's turn our attention to our beloved four-legged companions. Dogs bring joy to our lives, and many of us enjoy taking them on outdoor adventures. However, it is essential to keep them leashed while on shared trails. Some might argue that their dogs are well-behaved and pose no threat, but the truth is, we cannot predict how other trail users will react or if their dogs will react to ours. By keeping our dogs leashed, we demonstrate respect for others and prioritize their comfort and safety.

Unleashed dogs can create unpredictable situations. They might approach other trail users, causing fear or anxiety, or even lead to accidents and conflicts. Additionally, not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and some may have previous negative experiences. By keeping our dogs leashed, we create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all trail users, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their outdoor experience without unnecessary concerns.

Furthermore, leashing our dogs also protects the local wildlife and preserves the natural balance of the trail ecosystem. Even the friendliest and most obedient dogs can have a strong instinct to chase wildlife or disrupt the environment. By keeping them on a leash, we minimize their impact on the surrounding flora and fauna, maintaining the integrity of the trail for future generations to enjoy.

In conclusion, promoting safety and harmony on shared trails is a collective responsibility. By staying to the right side of the trail and keeping our dogs leashed, we contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone. Let's foster a culture of responsibility and consideration, where we prioritize the well-being and enjoyment of all trail users. Together, we can create a haven where nature enthusiasts of all kinds can revel in the beauty of our shared outdoor spaces.

Kevin D. Korenthal, CAE is the executive director of the National Association of Park Foundations and secretary of his local park foundation in McKinney Texas where he resides with his wife, Christine (featured in photo), 2 adult children, Dominick & Delanie and dog, Ponder (also featured in photo).

The NAPF executive director Kevin D. Korenthal, CAE was joined by Steven Mifsud, MBE, President & CEO of Direct Access Group for a "day in the park" talking about and viewing issues of accessibility in parks. Have a look!

#disabilityawareness #accessibility4all #parksandrecreation #VisionImpairment #AccessibleParks #InclusiveRecreation #DisabilityFriendly #WheelchairAccessible #ADAcompliant #BarrierFree #MobilityAccess #UniversalDesign #ParkAccessibility #AccessibleParks #ParkAccessibility #DisabilityInclusion #InclusiveParks #BarrierFree #ParkInfrastructure #DisabilityRights #EqualAccess #InclusiveDesign #AccessibilityMatters #ParkDesign #MobilityAccess #AccessibleOutdoorRecreation #ADACompliance #AccessibilityForAll #Inclusion #DisabledCommunity #ParkImprovements #AccessibilityAdvocate

The National Park Foundation and Carhartt are looking to fill more than 500 Service Corps jobs across United States national parks this summer, said NPF and Carhartt in a news release on Friday.

More visitors to Washington state national parks and climate change have created a need for workers at Washington’s Youth Conservation Corps and Northwest Youth Corps to handle conservation projects at parks like Mount Rainier National Park, said the release.

Hundreds of workers are in extreme demand at some of the nation’s most historical sites like Joshua Tree, Grand Teton, and Pictured Rocks National Parks. Jobs range from field crew members, trail maintenance workers, invasive plant workers, logistics coordinators, and everything in between, said the release.

A study from Carhartt that came out in February showed that nearly half of Gen Z and Millenials would prefer to work outdoors over a traditional office job.

The study also found that 85% of Gen Z and Millenials are somewhat open to jobs in nature conservation or the outdoors and 74% feel climate change and/or the environment is a top concern for current and future generations.

44% of Gen Z and Millennials said “finding a job that aligns with my values” was a top challenge in today’s job market.

Projects and job opportunities with NPF can be found at carhartt.com/NPF.

An often overlooked but relatively simple form of revenue generation in small park foundations is through memberships. Memberships offer your community supporters the opportunity to receive special benefits in return for a monthly or annual financial contribution. It is important to think holistically about the membership program you want to set up and to plan out the entire process before you launch it.

To create memberships for your small nonprofit park foundation, you can follow these steps:

Determine the benefits: First, you should decide what benefits members will receive. Will they receive exclusive access to certain parts of the park, discounts on merchandise or events, or other perks? Make sure the benefits are compelling enough to encourage people to join.

Continue reading on the forum.

Greenfields Outdoor Fitness started from the desire to bring no-cost exercise opportunities to public spaces with the goal that they be enjoyed by all, regardless of physical ability or fitness experience.

The NAPF sought a strategic partnership with Greenfields Outdoor Fitness because our association recognizes the importance of physical activity and seeks to promote products and services that open physical activity opportunities to all who seek it. We're especially interested in Greenfields' line of outdoor gym equipment for disabled and differently-abled people.

Let's learn more about Greenfields Outdoor Fitness and their products.

Sam Mendelsohn, president, and CEO, has a passion for both fitness and the outdoors, and saw in outdoor gyms a way to help people overcome obstacles to leading healthier lives.

Greenfields Outdoor Fitness is headquartered in Orange County, California, with a distribution network all over North America and installations stretching all the way to Australia.

Greenfields’ initial product line, now known as the Legacy Series, was designed to provide the public with not only the means but also the motivation to exercise. To that end, it was designed to be intuitive to use, thereby helping users overcome intimidation. In addition, most units feature a multi-user design, allowing several individuals to exercise together and thus increasing enjoyment and motivation.

To expand exercise options available to those with disabilities, Greenfields developed the patented Signature Accessible line (U.S. Patent 9,079,069 and 11,130,039). The unique design provides those with mobility impairments the opportunity to exercise not just in the same area but on the very same units as others. A second innovation was the Professional Series, featuring a mechanism allowing users to adjust the resistance to their ability level. These two lines were subsequently combined; after consultation with U.S. Paralympian Jen French, Greenfields debuted several new wheelchair accessible units with adjustable resistance. Greenfields now offers 10 separate exercises for those using wheelchairs.

Responding to the strong functional fitness trend and desiring to provide more activities to advanced users, Greenfields then developed the Functional Fitness line, which expanded over the next few years from a few simple fitness rigs to the current product line including kettlebells, suspension training apparatuses, and much more – all designed to weather the outdoor environment. Greenfields’ Functional Fitness units are highly customizable and ensure that all projects receive the perfect solution for their unique goals.

Most recently, Greenfields’ innovative X-Treme Ninja Courses have brought the excitement and competitive spirit of ninja training to public spaces. The X-Treme Ninja Courses successfully bridge the gap between play and fitness, offering an experience that’s supremely challenging yet reminiscent of a playground.

Greenfields is also proud to support the U.S. military with a specially designed Military Line, which today is used by all five branches of the Armed Forces on military bases worldwide.

Greenfields’ strength lies in its ability to create fitness areas customized to the unique needs of each individual project. Knowing that a gym is not a one-size-fits-all amenity, our team takes the time to design exercise areas with each specific community in mind. This results in inclusive, multigenerational fitness areas that can be enjoyed by teens, adults, and seniors together. For those new to the outdoor fitness experience, the Greenfields App provides video tutorials for exercises available on each unit and allow users to search for gyms, design workouts, and track their progress.

Over the years, Greenfields has partnered with many park foundations nationwide to help them advance toward their goals, and in so doing, we have gained knowledge and understanding of the challenges that park foundations face. We bring this experience to this partnership and are ready to support NAPF members with complimentary gym design services and multiple national purchasing contracts.

Let us help you create an outdoor gym designed just for your community! For more information or to start your own project, reach out to us by phone at 888-315-9037 or email info@greenfieldsfitness.com.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) can be an important tool for clarifying the roles and responsibilities of a nonprofit and a government agency, facilitating collaboration, ensuring compliance, and providing a legal basis for the partnership.

An MOU is a written agreement between two or more parties that outlines the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each party. It can be used to formalize the relationship between a nonprofit and a government agency, and to ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of their respective responsibilities and obligations.

Having an MOU can help to:

Clarify Roles and Responsibilities: An MOU clearly outlines the roles and responsibilities of each party, reducing confusion and misunderstandings.

Facilitate Collaboration: An MOU can facilitate collaboration between a nonprofit and a government agency by establishing a clear framework for their partnership.

Ensure Compliance: An MOU can help ensure that both parties follow relevant laws, regulations, and policies.

Facilitate Resource Allocation: An MOU can help to ensure that resources are allocated and used effectively, by specifying how resources will be provided and used.

Provide a Legal Basis for the Partnership: An MOU can provide a legal basis for the partnership between a nonprofit and a government agency, which can be used in the event of disputes or misunderstandings.

In essence, an MOU between the park foundation and the agency sets both organizations up for a fruitful and mutually rewarding relationship that improves outcomes in park spaces and facilities.

Reach out to executive director, Kevin D. Korenthal, CAE to learn about the ways that the NAPF can help your foundation create an MOU with the governing park agency at execdir@the-napf.org.

What does a tennis-loving married couple made up of a software engineer and a sales and marketing guru do when they become frustrated with outdated reservation technology at their favorite tennis facility? They design and sell a high-tech solution to the problem. 

NOTE: The National Association of Park Foundations is launching strategic partnerships with product and service providers in the park and recreation community that possess valuable solutions and park space improvements that members of the NAPF should be aware of. 

Reservation-based racquet sports such as tennis and pickleball require a means by which players can reserve and then gain access to the court. The owners of these facilities want security and happy customers. Customers want a hassle-free means to reserve, pay for and enter the court. 

CourtReserve offers a host of different solutions based on the needs of the client. In fact, it is the clientele, such as tennis and pickleball instructors, directors, and facility managers that have helped CourtReserve to develop the products that solve the problems they experience running and operating tennis and pickleball facilities. CourtReserve is a web-based software platform and mobile app that seamlessly orchestrates court management/utilization, program/event management, pro scheduling, member management, financial accounting, and more. The platform is used by over 800 facilities in over 19 countries. The company, which was started in 2016 by Tim and Ashley Owens, has developed a reputation for excellent customer service and product development that is driven by the needs of their clients. 

A growing worldwide resurgence of racquet sports is driving the innovation that CourtReserve is harnessing in its web and mobile applications. Park and recreation agencies and park foundations that manage court space can benefit from CourtReserve’s products to enhance revenue and security within their racquet sport assets. 

Stay tuned to your email and this blog for announcements about more strategic partnerships between the NAPF and product/service providers in the park and recreation community.

Learn more about CourtReserve & their products by visiting their website or socials:

Website:  https://courtreserve.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/courtreserve

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtreserve/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CourtReserve 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/12610332

Phone: (844) 407-3737

Email: Info@courtreserve.com