Hello, West Chester,
Time to bring back the sweaters, boots and pumpkin ales – fall is on its way! Which means it’s the perfect time to get outside and what better way than to grab a friend, a dog or the kids and head out to one of West Chester’s many parks?
In case you were not aware of all our parks – there are eleven in the borough alone – and what they have to offer, I am going to begin profiling each park in the borough, roughly one a week. As part of my research I’ve been digging around online (and dragging the baby to parks all over town). I’m amazed at the various amenities and activities these parks offer from yoga classes to music nights, even mini libraries.
I also learned that many of these activities and park upkeep and improvements are the work of the non-profit group, The Friends of West Chester Parks and Recreation – and its subgroups Friends of Everhart Park (FoE) and Friends of Marshal Square Park (FoMS).
All three groups are eager for members – membership dues are an important revenue source for the groups. Both FoE and FoMS maintain a wish list of projects they would like to complete. They are also eager for ideas, skilled labor and neighborhood support.
As a member you get a direct line to group leaders and access to exclusive neighborhood events. Both FoE and FoMS meet monthly at Borough Hall (second Monday and second Thursday respectively). Membership ranges from $15 to $50 depending on the group and the commitment level.
If you are looking for a way to make a difference today considering joining one or all of these great organizations and know you are directly improving the quality of life in West Chester. Plus, it’s a great way to meet your neighbors.
Have an affiliation to one of the other nine parks in the borough? There are still ways to help – pick up trash, weed a bed, become an advocate with the borough or just get out and enjoy. Not many cities the size of West Chester can boast eleven parks – let’s take advantage.