Texas parks and public spaces are vital for the well-being of communities, offering recreational opportunities, providing outdoor access, and boosting local economies. EarthShare Texas proudly uplifts organizations that maintain, enhance, and support parks and public spaces for Texans of all ages through volunteer opportunities and environmental stewardship. Learn how you can support these nonprofits as they work to create vibrant, accessible parks and public spaces across the state.
What Are Parks and Public Spaces?
Parks and public spaces are shared areas designed for recreation, environmental preservation, and community building. They range from neighborhood parks to expansive urban greenways and waterfronts. These areas offer not only recreational benefits but also social and environmental advantages. They combat crime, reduce environmental impacts in cities, and foster a sense of community pride and connection to nature.
By supporting parks and public spaces, we ensure that Texas communities have access to clean, safe, and engaging outdoor environments.
Photo Courtesy of Anthony Rathbun, Buffalo Bayou Partnership
Why Support Parks and Public Spaces in Texas?
With rapid urbanization and growing populations, it’s essential that Texas continues to invest in public spaces that provide environmental and social benefits. From reducing urban heat islands to enhancing residents’ quality of life, parks serve as vital green infrastructure. These nonprofits are at the forefront of advocating for, maintaining, and expanding parks and public spaces across the state, ensuring that they remain accessible for generations to come.
Top Organizations for Parks and Public Spaces in Texas
EarthShare Texas proudly supports these nonprofits dedicated to the care and expansion of Texas’ parks and public spaces. Here’s a closer look at the organizations leading the way.
Austin Parks Foundation: Enhancing Public Parks Through Community Action
Founded in 1992, the Austin Parks Foundation (APF) partners with communities to improve public parks, trails, and green spaces through volunteerism, advocacy, and financial support. APF’s innovative programs engage the public in maintaining and enhancing Austin’s natural spaces, ensuring that everyone has access to beautiful, functional parks.
Greens Bayou Coalition: Building a Healthy Future for Houston’s Bayous
The Greens Bayou Coalition focuses on one of Houston’s key natural resources—Greens Bayou. This nonprofit works to preserve and enhance the bayou’s role in flood control while providing parks and trails that connect Houston communities. Through partnerships and public engagement, they are transforming Greens Bayou into a thriving recreational and environmental resource.
Buffalo Bayou Partnership: Stewarding One of Houston’s Most Iconic Green Spaces
Buffalo Bayou Partnership leads the planning, design, and stewardship of the iconic Buffalo Bayou. Spanning 10 miles from Shepherd Drive through downtown Houston to the Port of Houston, this partnership transforms and activates public spaces along the bayou while creating new opportunities for recreation, conservation, and cultural experiences.
SPARK School Park Program: Turning Schools Into Community Parks
Since 1983, the SPARK School Park Program has been creating community parks on public school grounds throughout the Houston area. With over 200 SPARK parks, this nonprofit works with schools and neighborhoods to transform underutilized spaces into vibrant parks that serve the entire community. Each park is designed with input from the local community, making them unique, inclusive, and multi-functional.
Ecology Action: Building Resilience Through Sustainable Programs
Ecology Action is dedicated to creating sustainable communities by developing programs focused on energy, transportation, and water. Their initiatives provide opportunities for individuals and organizations to reduce their carbon footprint, adapt to climate change, and build resilient cities through equitable, community-driven solutions.
TreeFolks: Empowering Texans Through Tree Planting and Education
TreeFolks empowers Central Texans by planting and caring for trees in public parks, preserves, and schoolyards. Their work includes forest restoration after natural disasters and educational programs that teach individuals and communities how to care for the urban forest. TreeFolks also partners with the City of Austin to give away trees to residents in underserved areas, helping build greener, healthier neighborhoods.
Photo Courtesy of Greens Bayou Coalition
One Simple Way to Support Parks and Public Spaces in Texas
When you donate to EarthShare Texas, you’re helping preserve and expand parks and public spaces across the state. One donation supports multiple organizations dedicated to creating vibrant green spaces, ensuring a healthier future for our communities. One environment. One simple way to care for it.
Take Action: Support Parks and Public Spaces in Texas
- Donate to support sustainable design and renewable energy programs across Texas.
- Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates from our federation.
- Follow our social media to join our community.
