Gramping

About the Program

Category: Parks and Recreation (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

In September 2017, the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) hosted its first intergenerational camping event. Marketed to grandparents who serve as primary caregivers for their grandchildren, the event brought families in similar situations together for a series of games, nature walks, education sessions, a tree planting activity and other bonding opportunities. Evening festivities included a glow stick dance party, followed by stargazing, stories, and a lesson on how to safely build a campfire to roast s’mores. Forty-eight people attended the innovative program, affectionately called Gramping, which catered to first-time campers and those in socio-economically challenging situations – forging new friendships and connections with nature while boosting attendees’ self-awareness, confidence, and drive. Gramping was facilitated by DPR via its Lakeside and Spring Valley community centers and staff at Dos Picos County Park, in partnership with the County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) and Aging and Independent Services Department (AIS). Wildly successful and well-reviewed, Gramping will be held on an annual basis to show continued support for a population that works every day to make a better tomorrow for their families and communities.