Information: parkpride.org
A hidden gem in DeKalb County received some TLC on Aug. 22 when 40 volunteers from private, nonprofit and governmental groups came together for a large clean up effort at Constitution Lakes, a 200-acre scenic wetlands park in Southeast Atlanta that provides a habitat and nesting area for birds and wildlife.
The event was hosted by Park Pride, a local nonprofit that has worked with communities throughout Atlanta and DeKalb County to improve parks and advocate for increased green space over the past 25 years.
Park Pride partnered with Georgia Conservancy’s Generation Green, Community Bucket, and the Friends of Constitution Lakes for this volunteer day to help maintain and improve accessibility and usability of this incredible green space.
“The volunteer day at Constitution Lakes was a unique opportunity for individuals to not only make their acquaintance with Park Pride’s volunteer program, but also explore this park,” said Roberta Moore, Park Pride’s development and communications fellow. “This green space is so large and home to so much wildlife that it is easy to forget that you are just minutes from Atlanta.”
The groups collected trash, removed large sections of Chinese privet (an invasive species), created better trail definitions that also serve to protect flourishing amphibian habitats, and clear the boardwalk from debris.
“Parks and green space are important because they allow people to get out and experience nature close to where they live, which helps to build community. I come out to volunteer to meet people, and simply just to spend time outside!” said Moore.
As the city and its surrounding areas continue the boom of real estate development, green spaces are essential to the neighborhoods and the people that live in them.
Park Pride encourages volunteers to join the organization’s mission by participating in upcoming volunteer workdays, unique events happening in parks all over the city and the annual Parks and Greenspace Conference. The community can also advocate for more and better parks in Atlanta by getting in touch with local “Friends of the Park” groups. If a neighborhood doesn’t have one, people can contact Park Pride about creating one.
“The past 25 years of work have resulted in tremendous improvements and greater investment in Atlanta parks, but all communities of all capacities throughout the city deserve quality parks and green spaces,” added Moore.
In other news: Georgia Classic Rides donated $3500 to the Paulding County Sheriff's Office Cops for Kids Christmas Shopping program, which will celebrate its 17th year. The Paulding County Sheriff's Office Cops for Kids program seeks donations year round that help support annual Christmas Shopping trip. Information: Lt. Tracy Parker at 770-443-3016.
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