Since 1977, People for Parks has identified and funded special projects and events that improve Minneapolis and its parks. People for Parks is a non-profit organization created to stimulate financial and community support from citizens, businesses and organizations to enhance Minneapolis parks’ services and facilities. With an all volunteer board, over 98% of funds donated are directed to park projects. With over 1400 members, People for Parks continues its growth and mission with such projects as the annual 5K race for the Bandshell, Dutch elm inoculation, replacement trees, support for tennis court repair, the paver and bench program at Lake Harriet and more.
Board Responsibilities
Serving on the board is a responsibility and an opportunity open to all users of Minneapolis Parks. An active, well-qualified board is essential to a healthy organization.
The job of the board is to:
- Evaluate opportunities to improve and enhance the Minneapolis Park System
- Create opportunities for donors to support Minneapolis Parks
- Set long-range goals and make strategic decisions about the organization
- Ensure sound management of People for Parks' resources
- Safeguard the interests of our donors
To fulfill these responsibilities, the board focuses on these key areas:
• Planning for the organization’s vitality and longevity – both strategic planning and fund-raising
• Understanding the needs and desires of donors and the needs and desires of MPRB
• Approving capital, operating and grant budgets
• Recruiting new directors to ensure a well-qualified board
What are the qualifications necessary to be a board member?
Leadership experience in business or community organizations is a great asset. Experience with budgeting, reading financial statements, communications, marketing or long-range planning are helpful. Fund-raising experience would be great. Most important though, is having a passion for Minneapolis parks and an interest and enthusiasm for improving them.
What commitment is required?
Board terms are two years, and board service may require up to five hours per month (including the monthly meeting), depending on current board projects. Directors attend monthly meetings (2 hours on an agreed-to regular schedule) as well as special meetings as needed. Board members attend the Bandshell 5k race held early in September and help plan and attend an annual fund-raising event.
Expectations for Board members:
Regularly attend board meetings and important related meetings; make serious commitment to participate actively in committee work; volunteer for and willingly accept assignments and complete them thoroughly and on time; stay informed about committee matters, prepare themselves well for meetings, and review and comment on minutes and reports; get to know other committee members and build a collegial working relationship that contributes to consensus; participate in the board’s annual evaluation and planning efforts; participate in fund raising for the organization.
What are the benefits of being on the board?
You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you are using your skills to ensure the continued success of a three decade old community-enhancing organization. You can provide leadership on important issues such as environmental sustainability, community involvement, and park user advocacy. At the same time, you’ll meet great people and have a say in the projects that People for Parks funds.
For more information:
Contact Jeff Winter, Board President, at 612-306-2732 or send an email to jw5115@aol.com
You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about this great opportunity.
Please complete an application form and email to info@peopleforparks.net
Application Form 
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