Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation

Where Columbus Comes to Play, Create, and Thrive.

We expand access to parks, programs, and opportunities for every child and family in Columbus — because great communities deserve great public spaces.

Parks

Community Centers

Athletics Complexes

Golf Courses

Regional Trails

0 mi

People Served / Year

0 M+

Who We Are

The Foundation Behind the Parks You Love

Columbus Recreation & Parks runs the parks, trails, and community centers that serve millions of residents every year. The Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation ensures those same parks and programs can reach more people, more equitably, and with greater impact.

Tax funding covers approximately 75% of what it takes to run this system. CRPF bridges the rest — through donations, partnerships, and philanthropic support — so no family is left out because of cost.

Two Names. One Mission. Here's the Difference.

Columbus Recreation and Parks Department

The Department That Runs the System

Operates all 400 parks, 29 community centers, and 6 golf courses
Funded primarily through city taxes and user fees
A city government department

Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation

The Nonprofit That Expands Its Reach

Independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ot a city department
Raises philanthropic, corporate, and community support
Funds scholarships, program enhancements, and partnerships
Bridges the gap that tax dollars alone can’t cover

Columbus Recreation & Parks runs the system. CRPF helps it reach more people.”

Our Programs

Where Your Support Goes

Play

PLAY Scholarship Fund

Since 1993, CRPF has awarded $2M+ in scholarships, enabling ~3,000 youth per year to participate in camps, sports leagues, and Jr. Golf regardless of income.

Learn About PLAY →

Community

Adopt a Center

26 of Columbus’s 29 community centers serve high-poverty neighborhoods. The Adopt a Center program connects businesses and donors directly to the centers that need them most.

Adopt a Center →