For over a century, public parks and recreation centers have played a vital role within our communities. In metropolitan areas, public parks provide a wide variety of benefits that are otherwise difficult to come by in an urban setting. City parks improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our community bonds, add value to our cities and neighborhoods, and embody the American tradition of preserving public lands.

It’s estimated that 8 in 10 Americans live in metropolitan areas, making urban parks a critical part of America’s overall health and well-being. Parks provide us a place to play sports, walk our dogs, take our children to socialize and interact with others, and just enjoy the beauty of nature. Evidence shows that when people have access to parks, they exercise more and reduce the risk of a wide range of diseases and mental health disorders.

Hard Facts

• Leisure activities in parks improve moods, reduce stress and enhance a sense of wellness

• Public parks provide millions of Americans with an opportunity to be physically active

• Parks and recreation facilitate social interactions

• Community recreation services provide a refuge of safety for at-risk youth

• The real estate market has shown that city parks drive up property value within neighborhoods 

• Parks preserve critical wildlife habitat 

• Contribute to the cities identity and marketability

• Maintain biodiversity

The Hope

Funding for city parks is being cut year after year. With your help we can help preserve our parks and ensure their future.

Your spare change can make a difference! Consider donating to the following organizations:

San Francisco Parks Alliance

San Francisco’ parks and green open spaces are deserving of a world-class, independent nonprofit organization which holds the vision for our parks, aligns community needs and civic engagement with accountable City government management, and supports parks improvement through philanthropic investments.

One 14.5 ounce can (standard soup can) filled with mixed coins can average anywhere from $12 – $45+. This amount of money can help organizations like San Francisco Parks Alliance contribute to community and school play areas.

Sound like your cause? Join Chipper and let’s make change for the better! Click on the label below to print, color, and attach to your can and start collecting your spare change!