KRPA Today Summer 2015

PLAYGROUNDSEQUIPMENT

NATURE

RememberingNatures Benefits



TodayTodayTodayTodayTodayKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

KRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPASUMMER 2015SUMMER 2015SUMMER 2015

KANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

Tips for Getting GrantsTips for Getting GrantsTips for Getting Grants15 grants to apply for15 grants to apply for15 grants to apply for

FACILITIES

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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 3

Our Mission To advance park and recreation opportunities that enhance the quality of life through education, communication and advocacy.

Our Vision The Kansas Recreation and Park Association is THE SOURCE for information which advances parks and recreation in the State of Kansas and beyond.

An affiliate of the National Recreation and Park Association

Kansas Recreation and Park Association 700 SW Jackson St. Suite 805, Topeka, Kansas 66603 www.krpa.org 785-235-6533

KRPA Board of Directors President Jimmy Gibbs (Lawrence)President Elect Brian Bascue (Newton)Past President Diann Henderson (Great Bend)Secretary/Treasurer Jeff Stewart (Gardner) Administration Branch Chris Claxton (Leawood)Aquatics Branch Jennifer Wegener (Shawnee County)Marketing/Customer Service Branch- Nicole Asquith (Olathe)Park Law Enforcement Branch Kim Jones (KDWPT) Park and Natural Resources Ramie Degraeve (Shawnee)Recreation Branch Candi Fox (Winfield)Sports Branch Nick Leon (Holcomb)TR/Aging Rhonda Pollard (Johnson County)

Members At Large West Eric Jantz (Holcomb)Central - Tony Finlay (Hutchinson)East - Dave Smothers ( Merriam)

Committees/Ex Officio Awards Caite Kendrick (Ft. Riley)Conference Planning - Brian Bascue ( Newton)Citizen Board Kim Galbraith (Blue Valley)Conference Planning Jimmy Gibbs (Lawrence)Professional Development Steve Herrig (Blue Valley)Public Policy Scott Schoon (Winfield) / Nancy Wallerstein (Johnson County)Colleges and Universities Janice Jewett (Pittsburg)Parliamentarian Steve Friend (Baldwin City)KDWPT Linda Lanterman (Pratt) KRPA Executive Director Erika Devore

Editorial Staff Managing Editor Erika DevoreContributing Staff Bonnie Simon

Editorial CommitteeChair Chris Claxton (Leawood) Randy Knight (Johnson County)Roger Steinbrock (Lawrence) Dawn Harmon (Blue Valley) Paul Lewis (Dodge City) Chris Umphres (Great Bend) Kelby Hellwig (Johnson County)

This magazine is the official quarterly publication of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association and is provided complimentary as part of membership in KRPA. The editorial committee encourages the submission of articles and photos for publication. Articles of approximately 1,000 words or less may be submitted, but may be edited for length and clarity.

Deadlines for articles, photos and advertising: Fall: September 30, 2015 Winter: December 15, 2015 Spring: April 7, 2016 Summer: June 30, 2016

KRPA reserves the right to approve all advertising in Kansas Recreation and Park Association. All requests for advertising should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at 952-841-1111 or [email protected].

ContentsPerspective: From the President ........................................ 4

Around Kansas .............................................................5-6, 8

Remembering Natures Benefits ........................................ 9

Random Musings and Lessons Learned .........................10

Grant Tips .............................................................................11

KRPA News ......................................................... Back Cover

AdvertisersMost Dependable Fountains ............... Inside Front Cover

D. Gerber Commercial Pool Products and Service. ........ 3

John Deere ............................................................................. 7

Power Play ........................................................... Back Cover

Please support our advertisers, they make this publication possible. For information on advertising, contact Todd Pernsteiner at (952) 841-1111 or [email protected].

TodayKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

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Contact: McGrory Recreation [email protected]

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The definition of a healthy community means something different for everyone. But, one thing most of us can agree on is that parks and recreation plays a pivotal role in helping keep our communities healthy, active, connected and vibrant.

Welcome to the summer issue of KRPA Today. In this edition well focus on grants. Since finding money for programs and facilities is becoming more of a challenge, we wanted to concentrate this issue on the grant funding process. We all know that the best opportunities can quickly disappear without proper planning and financial support. We work hard to create healthy communities, and that takes a lot of money. From government grants to crowdsourcing local funds, the cash is definitely out thereits just knowing where to look, and how to ask. Never written a grant proposal before? Youre not alone. Asking for money can be as easy as telling a story. And we get that story by engaging our customers and finding out what they want and why it is important to them. I hope youll take a moment to read about grant writing resources available in the following pages of this issue.

So, back to the question, What is the key to a healthy community? Is it access to nature, parks, safe corridors to schools, physical and social activity? You bet! Its all that and much more. As park and recreation professionals, the greatest responsibility is perhaps organizing community needs into a focused plan that ultimately makes their lives better. We listen, come up with a plan, find funding, and improve the overall health of our communities. Almost anytime I read a story about the benefits of parks,

I notice a common theme in that parks have a direct relationship on increased physical activity, neighborhood socialization and lowered crime. Its also well documented that kids that have access to parks have lower obesity rates and ultimately do better in school. All of these are just some of the remarkable benefits that work toward building a healthy community. In the following pages, well hear from a neighborhood association in Kansas City, Kansas that shares their thoughts on the importance of local parks and recreation on the health of their community.

November, 2023. Thats just eight short years until I can retire. But dont think Ive picked out my bed at Whispering Pines just yet. Retirees spend the bulk of their recreation budget immediately after retirement. Its a bucket-list phenomenon so to speak. Folks want to cross all those things off their list while theyre young enough to enjoy them. So, if you havent felt the impact of the quickly-retiring Baby Boomers (born between 1946-1964), its no doubt that you soon will. And now is the time to capture their free-flowing funds and help reinvest those dollars in parks and

recreation. The Boomer generation currently makes up over a quarter of the total populationand represents almost 45% of the participants that use our local parks and recreation services. Considering that they also hold a staggering 70% of all disposable income in America, one question should come to mind: How am I engaging these folks? As active members of the community, retirees are hitting up their local parks and recreation departments for services. Age 50+ programs are the hot item these days. What programs do you offer? These active, older adults dont accept the title of senior citizen. There is no BINGO for this group! These folks are young and vibrant, have lots of free time and love to spend money on travel, health and hobbies. Well check in with Mike Buchannanone of our own professionals that recently retired from Manhattan Parks and Recreation. His story about life after parks and recreation presents a unique perspective on the benefits of the industry.

No matter how you look at it, its a fantastic time to be in the field of parks and recreation. Through awareness of what our customers want and then being able to find funding sources, we will continue to make parks and recreation a pillar of healthy communities across Kansas. As a group of dedicated professionals, we are certainly positioned to create change and guarantee a healthy future.

Now if someone asked you What is the key to a healthy community, how would you answer?

PerspectiveBy Jimmy Gibbs, KRPA President

Its really no secret what the key is to a healthy community. Or, is it?

4 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 4 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

What is the key to a healthy community? Is it access to nature,

parks, safe corridors to schools, physical and social activity? You bet! Its all that and

much more.


Around KANSAS

Edwardsville Gold Glove Week a Huge Success

Grace and compassion were at the forefront when Edwardsville Parks and Recreation Lead Mike Martin created Gold Glove Week that was held June 8-12 at Edwardsville City Park. During the week-long awareness and fundraising campaign that benefited Childrens Mercy Hospital of KCs Pediatric Cancer Center, Gold Glove Week featured a charity signing event with Frank White, 8-time Gold Glove Award recipient for the KC Royals.

White signed over 100 autographs that raised over $1500. Area businesses donated a percentage of sales over the course of the week, totaling another $2,000+. Skills competitions, vendors, a silent auction and t-shirt sales generated more money, totaling more than $5,500 for the event.

Pianos on ParadeThe City of Merriam is celebrating 100 years of music instruction excellence in Kansas City by sponsoring and hosting Pianos on Parade. The piano, located at the Merriam Marketplace, 5040 Merriam Drive, was decorated by local artist Lisa McElwee. Its theme is tied to the Farmers Market however has an I Spy component to engage everyone to try and find things, making it interactive even for those with no musical ability. The goal of the event is to turn community sidewalks, storefronts and parks into piano concert halls. This event is a program of Keys 4/4 Kids, a local nonprofit organization that sells donated pianos and uses the profits to fund charitable music programs in underserved areas. There are about 100 different themed pianos distributed across the Metro. For a complete listing of pianos in the area visit Pianos on Parade Kansas City.

Lenexa Civic Center Breaks GroundLenexa residents soon will be able to experience a premier civic campus: The Lenexa Civic Center Project, a mixed-use development that will include a community recreation center, new City Hall, plaza, farmers market and parking garage. Thousands of people attended the groundbreaking ceremony and Food Truck Frenzy, on June 12. The long-envisioned civic campus, which will be located within Lenexa City Center, is scheduled to open in late 2017. The three story community recreation center will feature an indoor pool and water slides, a walking track, multi-use gymnasiums, and a fitness center, among many other amenities. The City Hall building will feature a ground-floor public market, space for higher education partners, and an indoor amphitheater/city council chambers. Learn more about the project at www.Lenexa.com/CivicCenter.

Sustainability in Todays Parks and Recreation - SalinaCan you feel the vibe going around communities today? The feel of a new wave growing with many communities, the wave of sustainability. Families are embracing the resurgence of the family garden, recycling, and many other efforts that are in the promote sustainable practices. Lakewood Discovery Center has been promoting these through the Discover Salina Naturally fair. The 4th annual event was held on May 3, 2015. Over 4,000 people attended and had the opportunity to interact with 70 presenters. They focused on the vast opportunities of a sustainable lifestyles. These important aspects of our communities may not generate dollars, but do provide immense value to each communitys future.

6 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Around KANSAS

Summer Splash in Gardner a Hit with the CommunityIn an effort to celebrate the improvements to the Gardner Aquatic Center made over the winter, the Gardner Parks and Recreation Department threw a party for the community, and do they know how to throw a party! Among the many activities at Summer Splash were a performance

by the KC Sea Sprites, a local synchronized swim team, a visit from Laguna the Mermaid, water themed inflatables inside the facility, a steel drum band, free food and giveaways. Temperatures in the 90s helped contribute to the 1,700 people who attended the event on June 20th. Although some improvements may not be noticeable to all, they do provide increased facility safety, reduced long term maintenance costs, and a better overall experience for visitors.

Winfield Recreation Commission Turns 60The Winfield Recreation Commission turned 60 years old this year. We had a free pool party for the community at the Winfield Aquatic Center. It included drawings for prizes, live music, commemorative WRC water bottles and we served ice cream and cookies to 525 people who showed up for the event.

Lenexa creates I Like Lenexa AppLenexa has created a new app for residents, visitors, and anyone else who Likes Lenexa so they can engage with the community in a fun way through the use of technology and have access to information about events, parks, pools, art, playgrounds and more. Using the I Like Lenexa app, participants can complete tasks to earn achievements and points, and cash those points in for Lenexa-themed prizes. The app also features up-to-date news and a Lenexa weather forecast. Created in house by City of Lenexa staff, the app can be downloaded for free from the iOS App Store or for Android on Google Play. For more information, visit www.lenexa.com/parks/ILikeLenexaApp.html.

Witchitas Barry the Bison Mascot Becoming a CelebrityBarry the Bison is Wichita Park & Recreations new mascot and already a celebrity! Since joining the department in May, Barry has danced and high-fived his way into the hearts of the young and young-at-heart. He attends events, City Council meetings and community block parties to spread the word about the exciting recreational opportunities in Wichita. Barrys most successful event is Barrys Recreation Station. This mobile van stuffed with recreational equipment brings fun directly to the public by travelling to a variety of parks throughout the city. Barry encourages families to get outside and stay active. Troy Houtman, Director of Wichita Park & Recreation, is excited to have Barry as the face of the department. He stated, Mascots are fun - and were serious about having fun!

Ordering cant really get much easier.Welcome to John Deere. Whatll it be today: A Gator Utility Vehicle? A versatile mower? Would you like fex wing cutters with that? Whatever youre in the mood for, streamlined purchasing and a range of fnancing options make it easy to get what you want and get on your way. Drive up to your John Deere dealer or visit JohnDeere.com/Local for a taste of whats in store.

The object is simplicity. 59126

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Around KANSAS

New Outdoor Fitness Park at Heritage ParkOlathe Medical Center (OMC) and Johnson County Park & Recreation District (JCPRD) are providing a unique wellness opportunity for community members with the opening of the OMC Fitness Park at Heritage Park. Like with an indoor gym, the outdoor equipment is designed to help improve strength, endurance and flexibility. But the greatest advantage comes from combining these benefits with the natural boost users will experience simply from being outdoors. The fitness park project is part of OMCs Community Health Improvement Plan, which was developed to address the top health need priorities identified through the hospitals Community Health Needs Assessment. The top health need priority in OMCs service area is to decrease the obesity rate among residents.

The workout equipment includes stair steppers, a weight machine, pull-up bar and more. The park is free and open to the public year round. Its positioned in perfect proximity to park trails, a marina, playground and other amenities.

City of Merriam Expands GalleryIn June, the City of Merriam Parks and Recreation Department debuted the newly renovated and expanded Tim Murphy Art Gallery, located inside the Irene B. French Community Center. The expansion doubles the available exhibit space. The expanded space, previously housed the Historic Merriam Museum. Working with a key member of Historic Merriam, Inc., the artifacts found new homes with Union Station taking the large train layout and Johnson County Museum the historical documents. The renovation, partially funded by Merriam Parks, Recreation and Community Center Foundation, include new acoustic wall covering on all exhibit wall space, new LED lighting, new reception tables, and window shades. The most dramatic change was restoration of the original 1911 hard wood floors.

BEFORE

AFTER

Around KANSAS

Enchanted Playground in HutchinsonA friendly, mist-breathing dragon greets children and their families upon arrival at the enchanted playground of Orchard Park in Hutchinson, Kan. Here, kids ages 5 to 12 can climb the custom tree house or hang out in the cozy enclosure below. Even more enchanting, this playground was created in partnership with Shanes Inspiration, so kids of all abilities are welcome to explore the castle grounds from top to bottom. Rivers Bank Orchard Park is the first Shanes Inspiration Inclusive Design playground in the state of Kansas. Beside the PlayBooster play structure, there are other play areas including inclusive playground swings, sand play at wheelchair height, and the collaborative fun of the We-Saw. See more online: https://youtu.be/EgSOzGI6PXI


Fort Riley Seeks NRPA AccreditationThe Fort Riley Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreations (DFMWR) Community Recreation Division (CRD) is seeking to be accredited by NRPAs Commission for the Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). The visitation team will be at Fort Riley the week of 22 June to conduct their on-site review of files, hopefully leading to CAPRA accreditation at the annual NRPA conference to occur in Las Vegas, NV on 15-17 September. If accreditation is granted, Fort Riley CRD will become the 4th Army agency and the 2nd agency in the state of Kansas to hold that distinction.

Lawrence is Gold Medal FinalistLawrence Parks and Recreation is honored to announce weve been selected as a finalist for the 2015 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, which is presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association. LPRD is proud to have been selected as a finalist along with City of Allen Parks and Recreation, Allen Texas.; Roswell Recreation, Roswell, Ga. and

St. George Leisure Services, St. George, Utah.


Members ON THE MOVE

Ellinwood Hires New Director, Alex BirneyI moved to Ellinwood when I was headed into the fourth grade and have called it home ever since. Throughout my years of grade school and high school here in Ellinwood I was very active in sports and recreation. I played and loved just about every sport I participated. After I graduated high school in 2010 from Ellinwood High School I signed to play basketball at Bethany University in Lindsborg, where I majored in athletic training. After one year there I decided that I wanted to go to Kansas State University and focus on my degree which I changed to Kinesiology. My original plan was to go to physical therapy school but I ended up liking the recreation progams and being able to work with people of all ages. So I graduated in December 2014 with a degree in Kinesiology with my emphasis being exercise physiology. I have a lot of experience with personal training in the last 4-5 years which is why I feel this job is perfect for me. Not only do I get to program activities for the kids and adults in the community I grew up in, but I also get to help in growing our new wellness center that opened up May 1st. I took the job on May 14th and started the following day! - Alex Birney

2015-2016 KRPA Events

AUGUST 2015 14 SWKR Golf Tournament (Dodge City)

SEPTEMBER 2015 15-17 NRPA Conference (Las Vegas)29 - Oct 1 Tomorrows Leaders (Linwood)

OCTOBER 2015 2 KRPA Golf Tournament (Overland Park)7-8 Executive Forum (Grandview, MO)

DECEMBER 2015 5 BlueCHIP Award Application Deadline

FEBRUARY 2016 2-5 Conference & Expo (Dodge City)

MARCH 2016 7-9 CPSI Playground Safety Inspector

Contact Bonnie Simon at [email protected] for registration details.

Theres a place where suppliers

& KRPA members connect. Here.

KRPA TODAY magazine is published quarterly

by Kansas Recreation & Park Association (KRPA).

It features industry trends, upcoming events and

editorial content related to the park and recreation

industry. This is your opportunity to market directly

to the people who need your products, services,

classes and facilities.

Contact Todd Pernsteiner for advertising information at: [email protected] or (952) 841-1111.

Contact Todd Pernsteiner for advertising information at: [email protected] or (952) 841-1111.


By: Ahnna Nanoski

Several years ago, while driving home after work from the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri, my roommate started to complain about not being able to easily and speedily get onto Main Street from 47th Street. Traffic on 47th Street intersects with two major thoroughfares with Mill Creek Park at the center of all the action. The area can get very congested during peak hours making drivers and pedestrians frustrated. She expressed feelings of wanting the park to disappear so she would be able to have a simple straight route home. I was alarmed by the realization that not everyone could see the value of a park and boulevard system. Parks and green space are not just something pretty for residents to look at but vital pieces of the city ecosystem; every park, green buffer, community garden, or playground serves a purpose.

Just like Mill Creek Park at 47th and Main Street in Kansas City, Missouri, parks and green space can be a forgotten asset in our concrete, car centered, bustling society. When daily life is focused around maintaining a schedule its hard to appreciate why our city is laid out with an intertwining network of natural and built spaces. Those beautiful parks, open spaces, and long winding boulevard systems can seem more like a nuisance when the frustration of sitting in traffic, finding parking places, and navigating around the city overwhelms our daily life. People want to get where they want to go immediately and easily. In reality, the variety and accessibility of green space in our cities serve a vital purpose: they connect us to nature and to each other, and increase community health. These benefits arent limited by socioeconomic status, as parks and green space are available to all members of society and can be found in almost every neighborhood.

Since parks are a free, accessible public asset you can see a variety of activities and people taking advantage of the space, allowing for unique social interactions to occur in the community. Here in Wyandotte County, youth sports programming provided

by Parks and Recreation Department brings local youth and their families to the parks. Andreas, a seven year old Frank Rushton Elementary student, plays baseball with Rosedale Development Association and the Wyandotte County Parks and Recreation department. He states, I like [playing sports in the park] because its close to home and its a big park to play different sports. Andreas is enjoying the social, economic, and environmental benefits to having accessible parks and green space without even knowing it. The diversity of residents not only provides positive social interaction but connection to their neighborhood, increasing the sense of ownership of their community. A city with residents who feel ownership of their community have cleaner, safer, and healthier neighborhoods. In Wyandotte County, we are fortunate here to have a Parks and Recreation department that really believes that their mission is to build the health and wellness of the community by ensuring social, environmental, and economic sustainability through accessible parks and green space.

A sustainable community is built on productive social interactions, a safe and beautiful environment, and a healthy

economy. Without the connection of natural and man-made built environments in parks and green spaces our community would lack these health boosting assets. It is depressing to imagine a world where you could not easily take a relaxing walk around the park, grow your own food in a community garden, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family. Parks are a vital component of creating healthy communities, and often are taken for granted or underused. In this time of budget constraints, it is imperative that Parks Departments and community organizations work together to provide the programs and services our communities need. Together, we can create a healthier Kansas and get people back out in our parks!

Ahnna Nanoski works with Rosedale Development Association located in Kansas City, KS as an AmeriCorps VISTA Leader and Community Planning Associate. She graduated from the University of Missouri Kansas City in 2014 with a Bachelors degree in Urban Planning + Design. Current she is working on ongoing projects such as the Rosedale Master Plan Community Survey and the Frank Rushton Sidewalks Task Force.

Remembering Natures Benefits


By Mike Buchanan

As of July 15, its been 390 days since I officially retired. I remember thinking about the magical number that is KPERS 85, and I believe I started

counting down toward that date when I was about 300 days out. Its amazing how much longer the 300 days prior seem to be than the 390 days since. I guess time really does fly when youre having fun!

As much as I was looking forward to hanging it up, I was a bit surprised that I missed the daily routine that I had developed. I suppose that spending 31 years driving to and from the same facility will do that; and, I suppose its only natural to feel some sense of loss and irrelevance when it changes. I hung in there, though by my second day of retirement, I was feeling much better.

What goes around does really seem to come around. My first job with Manhattan Parks & Rec was ballfield maintenance, when I was 15 years old. Now, many years later, my first Parks & Rec job as a Retiree was ballfield maintenance, which I started around April 1st. The job hasnt seemed to change all that much. One thing I learned, though todays youngsters (say those about college age) dont know much about cleaning a bathroom!

If youre reading this, and you are one of those twenty-somethings, no offensebut learn how to clean a toilet!

I spent the months from September to May working as a substitute teacher. If you want to gain an appreciation for the

education profession, spend some time in the classroom. My wife has been a teacher for over 30 years, and I never really understood what she does until I spent one day subbing in the Kindergarten classroom. I was amazed and humbled - that 5-year olds could make me feel so inadequate!

If you are close to retirement, and are wondering what you might want to get in to, think about being a substitute teacher. There never seems to be enough (my phone rang almost every morning), so its nice to feel needed. Be advised, though kids today still feel the same way that we all did when we were in school A substitute means a FREE DAY!!

While Im on the subject, I was going to use this paragraph to describe my feelings about education funding in the state of Kansas, and share my opinion about our political leadership, starting with our governor. Lets not go there; instead, Ill just leave a few blank lines, and you can add your own sentiments (if you choose):

Speaking of things to do most folks considering the world of retirement probably have some kind of list in mind. Whether its your own personal agenda, or the Honey-dos, one thing I realized is this: things seem to get done quicker when you dont have to wait until evenings or weekends to do them. I wonder, thoughwhy is my personal list always shorter than the Honey-do?

Either way, the list still never ends!

During the countdown to KRPA 85 day, a common theme from conversations with other retirees was the importance of having a passiona hobby. As many of

you might remember, my son, Reid born and raised in Manhattan and forever a Wildcatchose to become an athlete for the University of Kansas. Now, I will admit that things worked out pretty well for him, and I amassed a decent wardrobe of Jayhawk clothing. It also allowed his mother and I to make it to almost all of his cross country and track meets; for me, that hobby continued after retirement.

For about two weeks.

Many of you may not know that last July - one month shy of starting his senior year - Reid decided to transfer to the University of Portland. As in Oregon. As in far, far away. (If you want more details about that, give me a couple of hours and I will elaborate). Fortunately, there were many positives that resulted from his transfer; I was still able to attend many of his meets last year, the UP men finished 3rd as a team at the 2014 NCAA Cross Country nationals, and he earned first-team All-American honors. Makes for a pretty proud Papa!

Even better than all that? The school colors for the University of Portland Pilots are purple and white. Sweet.

Anyone want some Jayhawk clothing? Ill give you a great deal!

People often ask me how I am enjoying retirement. In a nutshell, it good! Im getting stuff done at home, staying connected by working part-time for MPRD, subbing almost every day during the school year, and continuing to pursue my hobby. I dont really have any great advice to give; Im not a full-time professional any more, but I am plenty busy. I really dont feel all that retired, other than the lack of stress. My standard answer to those that ask me how its going?

I highly recommend it!

SOME RANDOM MUSINGS - & LESSONS LEARNED - REGARDING LIFE AS AN EX PARKS & REC DUDE


Tips for Writing & Getting Grants

11 Steps Involved in Creating a Proposal Review funder guidelines

Summarize guidelines for dissemination to staff and partners

Establish proposal development timeline

Develop proposal outline

Develop proposal checklist that includes submission requirements

Convene program staff to present and validate summary, checklist and timeline

Create proposal development team, including grant writer. Begin to respond to funder guidelines and pull together pieces of proposal in narrative format

Create mock proposal in submitted format. Blank pages for missing pieces of information or narrative

Consider graphics plan: logo, cover, index tabs, maps, organizational chart, management figure, project timeline, evaluation and other supporting charts

Create draft narrative from proposal development team assignments

Content review of narrative by proposal development team

The thought of grant writing can be a daunting process, but with the right

knowledge, you can get grants for your organization. Many park and recreation

departments have received grants to fund playgrounds and programming. There

are multiple online tools and templates available at your disposal. The money is

available, you just need to know where to find it. Here are steps that can help you get

on the path to winning grant funds.


If a foundation/giving program states limitations or application guidelines such as applications not accepted, or giving only to pre-selected organizations, you can still make yourself known to these funders by sending information such as your newsletter, brochure, etc. so that the foundation will be aware of your program.

As you seek funding, it is important to consider where your steering committee, volunteers and community members work. If there is a connection to one of its employees, many corporations will make donations to organizations through employee matching gift programs.

In addition to monetary donations, corporations may also make in-kind donations such as used computers, office equipment, products and time for employees to volunteer.

Make sure that you have a clear understanding of the terms used in the foundation world. Always ask about something you do not understand. Listed below are frequently used fundraising terms that may be unfamiliar to you.

Annual Campaign any organized effort by a nonprofit organization to secure gifts on an annual basis.

Cause-related Marketing linking charitable gifts with marketing promotions.

Endowment Funds a bequest or gift intended to be kept permanently and invested to provide income for continued support of an organization.

IRS Determination Letter proof of 501(c)(3) status (the Internal Revenue Code that defines nonprofit, charitable, tax-exempt organizations).

Seed Money a contribution used to start a new project or organization.

If your request is denied, ask why you were turned down. The reasons could range from the presentation, writing style or format of the document you submitted to the content of the program for which you are seeking funding. It is important to be equipped with accurate information should you attempt to seek funding from this source again and as you pursue other sources.

Be sure to find out if the potential funder hosts workshops, seminars, meetings and networking sessions for grant seekers. These events are very informative and are usually free or offered at a low cost.

Adopted from the After School Alliance

Explore Fund The North FaceApply: Between March 16th to April 17th

The Explore Fund provides grants to organizations that connect people to the outdoors and support outdoor exploration, with youth as a primary focus. To be considered for an Explore Fund grant, applicants must be a 501 3 non-profit organization or in a formal relationship with a qualified fiscal sponsor.

The Explore Fund supports the work of our key non-profit partner organizations, internally nominated non-profit groups, and an open grant application process. Typical awards are between $5,000 and $25,000. The Explore Fund is a highly competitive grants program and a limited number are awarded each year.

Open grant applications are evaluated broadly against the funding priorities and specifically as to program impact, design, organizational capacity and alignment to the mission and funding goals of The North Face.

Applicants must fully complete the online submission process and provide all the required information. The application process is available exclusively through our eligibility and application page.

The North Face Explore Fund is a competitive grant program that:

Provides participants experiences that nurture an enduring appreciation of the outdoors.

Uses outdoor exploration as the catalyst for positive personal or societal change, such as increasing personal resilience, improving opportunities for life success and future engagement in conservation activities.

Encourages participants to try new outdoor activities that are core to the North Face and our passion for outdoor exploration and adventure, including camping, hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding, yoga, running and mountain biking.

For more information on the grant program please visit the EXPLORE FUND FAQ.

CONTACT: www.explorefund.org

Tips for Writing & Getting GrantsUnderstanding Grant Processes & Terms 15 Grants You Should

Apply For


Good Sports Equipment GrantApply: Year-Round

As a standard process, we ask that all interested programs submit an application in order to determine the level of need present within their particular organization.

We do ask that all applicants meet the following criteria:

You directly serve youth between the ages of 3-18 years old

You serve youth in an economically disadvantaged area

You are located in North America (U.S. and Canada)

You operate an organized sport, recreational activity, or fitness program that offers consistent and structured opportunity for play to large groups of children

Additionally, Good Sports is not able to donate to the following:

Short-term events such as sports camps and tournaments

Individual athletes

Please note the following change in our process for 2015:

Organizations who are approved will have access to equipment, apparel and footwear inventory for a two (2) year period

During that period, organizations can make up to six (6) separate donation requests as long as need is well documented those donations will be granted

There will be no need to resubmit a full application again during that 2 year period

CONTACT: Phone: 617-471-1213 or Email: [email protected]

KaBOOM! Playground GrantsApply: Year-Round

Thanks to the generosity of dedicated funding partners, KaBOOM! has exciting ongoing grant opportunities for community partners to transform their community spaces! Build it with KaBOOM! grant opportunities are based on geographic locations where and when KaBOOM! currently has funding. KaBOOM! encourages potential community partners to apply in advance. As grant opportunities present themselves, KaBOOM! can quickly be in touch with you to schedule the next steps in the application process.

A Build it with KaBOOM! grant provides the facilitation and support of an experienced Project Manager as community members embark on a 512 week planning process. After selection, all partners will join together for a community Design Day, inviting play experts (the kids, of course) to design their dream playspace. Your hard work and required weekly planning will result in a six-hour community day, where you will transform your community space to include a permanent play structure (equipment will be ordered by your Project Manager from

Playworld Systems, Inc.) as well site enhancements that will make your space 100% unique to your community. Site enhancements vary for each project due to location, budget and scope of project; please visit kaboom.org/enhancementprojects to brainstorm what projects may be part of your community-space vision.

CONTACT: Email: [email protected] or Website: www.kaboom.org

Kansas City Royals Charity Field GrantsRoyals Charities *Restricted to Agencies in the Kansas City Metro Area Only

Apply: March 1st or October 1st

The Royalty Fields grant program is an ongoing Royals Charities effort that strives to improve baseball and softball facilities in the Greater Kansas City Area. What they fund: New Programs, Tangible items, One-time capital expenses, Special supplies or purchases.

Your organization will be asked to present the following information: Operate in Kansas City Metro area, Be a 501 (c) (3) with a Federal tax exempt letter; Budget for entire organization not to exceed $5,000,000 is preferred.

CONTACT: E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/kc/community/grant_guidelines.jsp Royals Charities, One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129.

Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)Apply: Year-Round

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program allows the Department of Commerce to distribute federal funds to Kansas cities and counties looking to improve their community. To receive funds, a project must meet at least one of the following federally mandated criteria:

The project benefits low-and moderate-income individuals

The project removes or prevents slum or blight condition

The project eliminates an urgent need created by a disaster when local funds are unavailable.

Community Facilities: Projects may consist of, but are not limited to, fire protection, bridges, community/senior centers, streets, architectural barrier removal, natural gas and electrical systems, health, mental health, and other public facilities projects.

The maximum award is $400,000 with a funding ceiling of $2,000 per beneficiary.

CONTACT: Salih Doughramaji, Phone: (785) 296-3004 or Email: [email protected] Kansas Department of Commerce, 1000 SW Jackson Street, Suite 100, Topeka, KS 66612-1354.


15 Grants You Should Apply For



Kansas Department of Transportation Safe Routes to SchoolApply: Year-Round

KDOT is pleased to be involved in the Safe Routes to Schools Program. Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS) is a federal reimbursement program that provides funding for infrastructural projects and educational activities that assist Cities, Counties, and School Districts to enable children to walk or bicycle to school more safely. Funding will be provided to Local Public Authorities and School Districts, working in cooperation, on a competitive basis. Applications and supporting materials are mailed to Local Public Authorities; School Districts, Tribal Governments, Consulting Firms, and other interested parties.

Engineering Creating operational and physical improvements to the infrastructure surrounding schools that reduce speeds and potential conflicts with motor vehicle traffic, and establish safer and fully accessible crossings, walkways, trails, and bikeways.

Education Teaching children about the broad range of transportation choices, instructing them in important lifelong bicycling and walking safety skills, and launching driver safety campaigns in the vicinity of schools.

Enforcement Partnering with local law enforcement improve compliance with traffic laws in the vicinity of schools (this includes enforcement of speeds, yielding to pedestrians in crossings, and proper walking and bicycling behaviors), and initiating community enforcement such as crossing guard programs.

Encouragement Using events and activities to promote walking and bicycling.

Evaluation Monitoring and documenting outcomes and trends through the collection of data, including the collection of data before and after the interventions(s).

Funding will be provided for infrastructural projects such as improvements to sidewalks, traffic calming, pedestrian and bicycle crossing, on- and off-street bicycle facilities, secure bicycle parking, and traffic diversions. Funding will be provided for non-infrastructural activities such as public awareness campaigns and outreach to press and community leaders, establishing walking school buses and bike trains, traffic education and enforcement, student training on bicycle and pedestrian safety, and funding for training volunteers and staff. Funding will also be provided for applicants to develop safe routes to schools plans, with the possibility of future funding to implement the plan.

CONTACT: Becky Pepper, Phone: (785) 296-7448 or E-mail: [email protected]

Bureau of Transportation Planning, Kansas Department of Transportation, 700 SW Harrison, Topeka KS 66603.

Leathers and Associates PlaygroundsApply: Year-Round

Since 1971, Leathers & Associates has been on hand to celebrate the opening of more than 3,000 playgrounds in all 50 states and 7 other countries. They specialize in custom-designed outdoor play spaces that are a reflection of childrens imaginations and the wants and needs of their clients. Whether you are considering a small toddler playground or a large all-inclusive destination playground, we are here to help you bring your dreams to fruition. The possibilities are endless!

CONTACT: Phone: (877) 564-6464 or E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.leathersassociates.com

Leathers and Associates, 725 N. AIA Unit E201, Jupiter, FL 33477.

National Park ServiceApply: By August 1st

The National Park Service helps communities create close-to-home recreation opportunities and conserve natural resources.

Our Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program accepts applications through August 1 for help with a wide range of community-led projects.

National Park Service staff can help local leaders:

Develop close-to-home parks and greenways

Manage community-led visioning, planning, and design

Facilitate public involvement

Build sustainable partnerships

Engage youth through outdoor recreation skill-building and conservation stewardship

Plan for trails, landscape conservation, water trails, river restoration, green transportation, and tourism.

CONTACT: Phone: (202) 354-6900

Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program, 1201 Eye Street NW, Washington, DC 20005

Sunderland Foundation Bricks and Mortar ProjectsApply: Year-Round

The Sunderland Foundation was established in 1945 by Lester T. Sunderland, who served as president of the Ash Grove Cement Company for 33 years, and a highly respected leader in the cement industry.


For more than six decades, the Foundation which is still managed by Lester T. Sunderlands descendants has areas where the Ash Grove Cement Company does business.

Grants are awarded in Western Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Western Iowa.

The Sunderland Foundation makes grants annually to publicly supported charitable organizations with tax exempt status under section 501 [c] 3 of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation prefers to make grants for capital and special projects rather than for annual operating expenses.

Grants for building construction, renovation, repairs and restoration of facilities are considered. Areas of interest include higher education, youth serving agencies, health facilities, community buildings, museums, civic projects, and low maintenance, energy efficient housing projects sponsored by qualified tax-exempt organizations.

CONTACT: Website: http://www.sunderlandfoundation.org/FundingAreas.asp

Proposals and other inquiries should be mailed to: Attention: President, The Sunderland Foundation, P.O. Box 25900, Overland Park, Kansas 66225

Sunflower Foundation Sunflower Trails Grant ProgramApply: Yearly

The Sunflower Foundation invites proposals for its Sunflower Trails program, a longstanding foundation program designed to help communities and schools promote healthy living for Kansans of all ages. The Sunflower Trails program provides grants for construction, expansion and enhancement of community- and school-based trails as a way of supporting the concept of a built environment; that is, a living space where the healthy choice is the easy choice. The goal of the Sunflower Trails program is to help communities and schools create safe and accessible places for people to connect to physical activity, a healthier lifestyle, the great outdoors and each other.

CONTACT: Phone: (785) 232-3000 local or (866) 232-3020 (toll free)

Website: www.sunflowerfoundation.org/grants/sunflower_grants

Sunflower Foundation, 1420 SW Arrowhead Rd Suite 2N, Kansas 66604.

Tony Hawk Foundation Skateboard Parks and Facilities for Low-Income CommunitiesApply: In January and June

The principal focus of the Tony Hawk Foundation is to encourage and facilitate the design, development, construction and operation

of new, quality skateboard parks and facilities in low-income communities throughout the United States. The Foundation provides support to parks that are designed and built by qualified and experienced contractors, include local skaters in the design process, and demonstrate a strong grassroots commitment to the project. Also, parks that have a creative mix of obstacles and terrain, dont over-regulate or restrict access to the park, dont charge money, and are in areas that currently have no skateboarding facilities are preferred. Nonprofit organizations and government agencies, including public schools, are eligible to apply. Applications deadlines are in January and June.

CONTACT: Phone: (760) 477-2479 or Email: [email protected]

Tony Hawk Foundation, 1611-A S. Melrose Drive #360, Vista, CA 92081

US Department of Agriculture Facilities Direct Loan & Grant ProgramApply: Year-Round

This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.

Who may apply for this program?

Eligible borrowers include:

Public bodies

Community-based non-profit corporations

Federally-recognized Tribes What is an eligible area?

Rural areas including cities, villages, townships and towns including Federally Recognized Tribal Lands with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Data are eligible to apply for this program. How may funds be used?

Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and / or improve essential community facilities, purchase equipment and pay related project expenses. Examples of essential community facilities include:

Public facilities such as town halls, courthouses, airport hangars or street improvements

Community support services such as child care centers, community centers or fairgrounds




Local food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs or Greenhouses What kinds of funding are available?

Low interest direct loans

Grants

A combination of the two above, as well as our loan guarantee program. These may be combined with commercial financing to finance one project if all eligibility and feasibility requirements are met. What are the funding priorities?

Priority point system based on population, median household income

Low-income communities having a median household income below 80% of the state non-metropolitan median household income What are the terms?

Funding is provided through a competitive process.

Direct Loan:

Loan repayment terms may not be longer than the useful life of the facility, state statutes, the applicants authority, or a maximum of 40 years, whichever is less

Interest rates are set by Rural Development, contact us for details and current rates

Once the loan is approved, the interest rate is fixed for the entire term of the loan, and is determined by the median household income of the service area and population of the community

There are no pre-payment penalties

CONTACT: Phone: (785) 271-2700 USDA Rural Development, 1303 SW 1st American Pl #100, Topeka, KS 66604

Walmart Foundation Community and State GrantsApply: Between February 1 to December 31, 2015

Funds must benefit the facilitys service area: potential grantees should be nonprofit organizations or government entities with programs that benefit communities within the service area of the Walmart store, Sams Club or Logistics facility from which they are requesting funds.

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have identified four core areas of giving: Hunger Relief & Healthy Eating, Sustainability, Womens Economic Empowerment and Career Opportunity. To ensure that your application has the best chance of being funded, the proposed use of the grant should fit within those areas of giving. Primary consideration for the Community Grant program is to support local organizations with programs that align with Walmart and the

Foundations areas of giving. However, programs that do not align with these areas may also be given consideration. These include programs that are geared toward strengthening local school-based initiatives. Key Facts about the State Giving process: Focused Giving* includes programs focused on Hunger Relief & Healthy Eating and Career Opportunity only. Examples include efforts that aim to enroll people in SNAP, healthy eating/ cooking skills training, nutrition education programs and career skills or job training efforts that lead to placement. Community Engagement Giving** is broader and includes programs focused on the unmet needs of underserved populations that may fall outside of the focus areas listed above. Examples include education, health care access and other human services programs. If you are applying for funding through a Sams Club location, additional focus areas are considered.

Organizations applying must meet the one of following criteria:

An organization holding a current tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3), (4), (6) or (19) of the Internal Revenue Code

A recognized government entity: state, county, or city agency, including law enforcement or fire departments, that are requesting funds exclusively for public purposes

A K-12 public or private school, charter school, community/junior college, state/private college or university

A church or other faith-based organization with a proposed project that benefits the community at large.

CONTACT: http://foundation.walmart.com/apply-for-grants/local-giving-guidelines

http://foundation.walmart.com/apply-for-grants/state-giving-guidelines

Game Time Outdoor Fitness GrantApply: August 31st, 2015

GameTime is offering grant funds to help communities add GTfit Outdoor Fitness Products to parks and greenspaces. Backed by independent research from leading health and wellness professionals, GTfit products are the industrys leading adult outdoor fitness solution. These preconfigured packages provide all four elements of a well-rounded fitness program and can help your park qualify for National Demonstration Site status!

Grant awards are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Grant award amounts are based on various criteria, including the price of the preconfigured fitness package, community need as evidenced by the grant application, as well as other factors. Grant awards must be applied to a preconfigured GTfit fitness package. Grant funds cannot be combined with any other special offer or promotion. Applications must be received by August 31, 2015. Orders must be received by September 15, 2015 and all orders must ship before December 31, 2015. Offer valid only in the United States.


Contact your local GameTime representative for complete details.

Grant awards of up to $5,000 are available. Submit your application below and select the GTfit fitness package that is right for your community. Applications must be received by August 31, 2015.

More Information: www.gametime.com/summerfitness

National Endowment for the Arts Arts Engagement, Cultural Planning, and Design Projects; Projects that Build Knowledge About Creative PlacemakingApply: September 21, 2015

The Our Town grant program supports creative placemaking projects that help to transform communities into lively, beautiful, and resilient places with the arts at their core. Creative placemaking is when artists, arts organizations, and community development practitioners deliberately integrate arts and culture into community revitalization work - placing arts at the table with land-use, transportation, economic development, education, housing, infrastructure, and public safety strategies. This funding supports local efforts to enhance quality of life and opportunity for existing residents, increase creative activity, and create a distinct sense of place.

Through Our Town, subject to the availability of funding, the National Endowment for the Arts will provide a limited number of grants for creative placemaking. Our Town requires partnerships

between arts organizations and government, other nonprofit organizations, and private entities to achieve livability goals for communities.

Our Town offers support for projects in two areas:

Arts Engagement, Cultural Planning, and Design Projects. These projects represent the distinct character and quality of their communities. These projects require a partnership between a nonprofit organization and a local government entity, with one of the partners being a cultural organization. Matching grants range from $25,000 to $200,000.

Projects that Build Knowledge About Creative Placemaking. These projects are available to arts and design service organizations, and industry or university organizations that provide technical assistance to those doing place-based work. Matching grants range from $25,000 to $100,000.

You are required to use Grants.gov. See How to Prepare and Submit an Application for further information.

Before you apply through Grants.gov for the first time, you must be registered. Registration with Grants.gov:

Is a multi-step process.

Takes time; allow two weeks.

Must be completed before you can submit your application.

For more information: http://arts.gov/grants-organizations/our-town/introduction


Explore Fund The North Face Apply: Between March 16th to April 17th Web: www.explorefund.org

Good Sports Equipment Grant Apply: Year-Round Phone: (617) 471-1213 Email: [email protected]

KaBOOM! Playground Grants Apply: Year-Round Email: [email protected] Web: kaboom.org

Kansas City Royals Charity Field Grants Apply: March 1st or October 1st E-mail: [email protected] Web: kansascity.royals.mlb.com/kc/community/grant_guidelines.jsp

Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant Apply: Year-Round Salih Doughramaji Phone: (785) 296-3004 Email: [email protected]

Kansas Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School Apply: Year-Round Becky Pepper Phone: (785) 296-7448 E-mail: [email protected]

Leathers and Associates Playgrounds Apply: Year-Round Phone: (877) 564-6464 E-mail: [email protected] Web:leathersassociates.com

National Park Service Apply: By August 1st Phone: (202) 354-6900

Sunderland Foundation Bricks and Mortar Projects Apply: Year-Round Web: sunderlandfoundation.org

Sunflower Foundation Sunflower Trails Grant Program Apply: Yearly Phone: (785) 232-3000 local (866) 232-3020 (toll free) Web: sunflowerfoundation.org/grants

Tony Hawk Foundation Skateboard Parks and Facilities for Low-Income Communities Apply: In January and June Phone: (760) 477-2479 Email: [email protected]

U.S. Department of Agriculture Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program Apply: Year-Round Phone: (785) 271-2700

Walmart Foundation Community and State Grants Apply: Between February 1 to December 31, 2015 http://foundation.walmart.com/apply-for-grants/local-giving-guidelines http://foundation.walmart.com/apply-for-grants/state-giving-guidelines

Game Time Outdoor Fitness Grant Apply: August 31st, 2015 Web: gametime.com/summerfitness

National Endowment for the Arts Arts Engagement, Cultural Planning, and Design Web: Grants.gov.

Available Grants

TodayKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

KRPA

Kansas Recreation and Park Association 700 SW Jackson St., Suite 805 Topeka, Kansas 66603

918.728.9978www.powerplay.net

Partnerwiththe

ExpertsinAquaticPlaySolutions

www.vortexintl.com1.877.586.7839SplashpadPoolplaySpraypoint

Association News

BlueCHIP Award Application available: October 5, 2015 Application due: December 5, 2015 Categories include: C =Clean Air H =Healthy Food Choices I = Initiatives to Curb Obesity P = Physical Activity

Call for Nominations KRPA Board of Directors Positions open President Elect, Secretary/Treasurer, Member at large West

AmazonSmile Did you know you can give back to KRPA just for shopping through AmazonSmile? Click the link on krpa.org to log in using our program code, or go to: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7326834

KRPA Golf Tournament October 2nd, 2015 St. Andrews Golf Course Overland Park, KS Register today at https://krpa.wildapricot.org/event-1955869

KRPA Today Summer 2015

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Transcript of KRPA Today Summer 2015