Getting Started

The first step toward creating a new Friends Group is submitting this application, which helps us to better understand the ideas you have for your park and the commitment level of your team.

 

Once your application is received, APC will guide you through the process of building your FG and developing a plan to sustain it over time. We encourage you to continue navigating through the links provided here on our website to gain a deeper understanding of what Friends Groups are and how APC supports them. If you have any questions, you can reach out to us directly through the “Contact” tab above.

Are you already connected with people and groups in your neighborhood? If not, how do you plan to make those connections? How will you be intentional about the inclusion of all community members? Are there existing organizations or businesses in your neighborhood that might make good partners? 

A successful Friends Group understands the unique needs of their park, and gathering community input in an inclusive and comprehensive manner is the best way to accurately determine these needs. We encourage FGs to collaborate with involved individuals and organizations to decide which outreach methods make the most sense for their neighborhood. Community input is typically acquired by hosting meetings, distributing surveys, and/or canvassing door-to-door. Every park is different, so APC offers individualized support and guidance to FGs as they plan to gather community input and assess their park’s needs.