Free Outdoor Family Time
2023 NACo Achievement Award Winner
Washington County, Minn., MN
Best In Category
About the Program
Category: Parks and Recreation (Best in Category)
Year: 2023
Free Outdoor Family Time is an event that aims to connect historically underrepresented groups to the parks while connecting them to various County resources. Objectives include removing financial barriers for use of parks, providing a variety of activities to introduce new users to what parks have to offer, and creating an opportunity for residents to better understand available County services. The event coincides with the start of the new school year to provide an outlet for new school nerves and highlight how use of parks does not need to be a solely summer activity. Families were able to enjoy casting with a fishing rod, football, disc golf, hiking on an accessible trail, soccer, volleyball, and creative play building with foam blocks. Free school supplies were also provided for event guests. Multiple County departments and a local fire department attended the event to provide resources and activities for families.