LETTER

Adults grateful for south Minneapolis park activities

Posted

Much has been written related to Minneapolis Park Board leadership over the past year and yet there are ongoing neighborhood park programs and a consistent and dedicated number of individuals whom lead and staff the community programs that we hear about too infrequently.
Minneapolis city parks are not just for youth activities and day care for toddlers but also for adults. Some of the activities offered include art and craft groups, card playing, yoga, exercise classes and more. Many activities are free or for only a few dollars. They also host monthly luncheons and entertainment as well as day trips to theaters/plays, rides on local rivers and lakes, field trips to historical sites, eagle watching on Lake Pepin and more.
During the pandemic and pandemic shut down, the south Minneapolis park directors and staff stayed connected and would reach out and call the older adults with an offer of help or provide assistance for anything they might need. They also delivered creative and uplifting “care packages” periodically to the older adults that included reading material, word games, treats and gifts. When spring arrived, the care packages we received included flowers and plants which were not only colorful and bright but also evoking an openness, hope and rebirth after a challenging year.
We adults, appreciate the Minneapolis parks directors, staff and the ongoing programs they offer us and we’d like to recognize these folks for their passion for striving to create a community where all are welcome.
While my experience is that of partaking in south Minneapolis programs; equally, there are park programs offered throughout the city. The directors and staff are true community builders and heroes within their work to support neighbors and a sense of belonging. This is Minneapolis at its best thanks to these leaders!.
Irma Turner
Lifelong resident of south Minneapolis

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