The virtual learning sessions were designed to provide tips, resources, and best practices for nonprofits and grassroots organizations that are just getting started with developing community-driven public space programming. By participating in at least one session, organizations qualified to apply for a mini grant sponsored by the Pistons Foundation. 

In collaboration with the Detroit Parks Coalition, an alliance of local parks organizations, we identified “how to” topics for the sessions as well as 1-2 speakers per session. We also branded the training as “Let’s Play! A Learning Series on Activating Public Spaces” and designed communication assets for partners and speakers to promote the event.

We facilitated four virtual sessions that included presentations from speakers and a Q & A with attendees. Our final in-person session was held at the Pistons Training Center with an opportunity for mini grant application assistance, networking, and a presentation from a neighborhood based organization.

We captured key takeaways from the learning series in a digital resource titled “A Guide to Programming Parks and Public Spaces.” The guide shares tips and best practices and raises questions for reflection about the topics covered in each session.

The Let’s Play learning series has since evolved into the annual Detroit Parks Summit, hosted by the Detroit Parks Coalition. Learn more about our support of that event here.