News – Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation

Program Spotlight

Breaking Down Barriers: Blue Jackets Foundation Helps Center Without Walls Bring New Experiences to Columbus Youth

For more than 225 young people across Columbus, this summer was about more than staying busy while school was out. It was about stepping into new spaces and trying new things. With support from the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation, Columbus Recreation and Parks’ Center Without Walls program expanded opportunities for youth to stay active, explore

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Program Spotlight

More Than a Day of Fishing: Community Partners Help Create Lasting Memories

For nearly 30 years, the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Summer Fishing Program has introduced thousands of young people to the outdoors through hands-on learning, mentorship, and unforgettable experiences. What began as a partnership with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Columbus Police, and D.A.R.E. has grown into a beloved summer tradition serving youth at

August 7, 2026 No Comments

Program Spotlight

Building Strength Beyond the Weight Room: Empowering Girls Through Power Lifting

This spring, the Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation proudly partnered with the Women’s Sports Foundation to support an innovative new initiative through the Girls Empowerment Program at Lazelle Woods Community Center, introducing teenage girls to the world of strength training and power lifting. Led by Columbus Recreation and Parks staff member Kaitlyn Welke, the program

June 19, 2026 No Comments

News

Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation Awards First-Ever Pillar Grants to Community Centers

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation is proud to announce the inaugural recipients of its Pillar Grant Program, marking a major milestone in the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening community centers across Columbus. Designed to support Programs, Innovation, Leadership, Learning, and Recreation, the Pillar Grant Program provides critical funding to enhance programming and deepen community engagement

April 19, 2026 No Comments

Donor Spotlight: Small Steps, Big Impact- Park to Park Stroll Supports Columbus Tree Canopy

What started as a simple walk with friends has grown into a meaningful movement for local greenspaces. The Park to Park Stroll group is a community-driven initiative led by two friends, Paige Crane and Trish Cadwallader, who turned their love for walking Columbus parks into a creative way to give back. Twice a year, this

April 30, 2025 No Comments

News

Board Member Neil Shingala Named to Business First 40 Under 40 Class

Congratulations to Neil! We’re proud to celebrate our very own CRP Foundation Board Member, Neil, for being named to the Business First 40 Under 40 Class of 2025! Your passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Columbus community inspire us every day. Thank you for your dedicated service to the Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation and beyond.Join

April 2, 2025 No Comments

News

Meet Our New Executive Director, Keiana Mitchell

Keiana Mitchell is the Executive Director of Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation, leading the Foundation’s efforts to further the mission of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. With nearly 15 years of experience in strategic partnerships, fundraising, and community engagement, Keiana has dedicated her career to building meaningful relationships and driving impactful initiatives that strengthen

March 10, 2025 No Comments

CRPF Welcomes New Board Members

Membership Speaks to the Inclusiveness of the Foundation The Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation is excited to announce the recruitment of seven new board members today. These members make up a true cross-section of the best Columbus has to offer. Jim Bender – Vice President, Global Customer Journey, Wendy’s Tasha Booker – Senior Vice President

February 15, 2024 No Comments