In 2024, the Regional Parks Foundation raised $3.25 million, enabling us to serve over 16,000 East Bay youth and community members. Here are just a few highlights made possible by your support:
- 1,138 youth scholarships provided for summer camps and aquatic programs
- 6,309 park visitors received bus transportation to community events
- $56,360 invested in endangered species monitoring and habitat restoration
These are more than numbers—they’re moments of joy, growth, and connection experienced by thousands of people across our region, all because of you. As we move forward, your continued partnership ensures our parks remain inclusive, welcoming, and well cared for. Thank you for being an essential part of this work!
Youth Development
The Foundation is committed to building confidence, resilience, and creativity in young people. Through hands-on science education and outdoor skills, we inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.
The youth programs we support give local students the chance to learn about the environment and connect with nature in their own neighborhoods, helping them become the park stewards of tomorrow. In 2024:
- 3,088 Students and teachers received field trip and classroom support through the Kids Healthy Outdoor Challenge
- 1,122 Kids gained outdoor skills as part of three Adventure Crews
Health, Wellness & Safety
Spending time in nature boosts both our mental and physical well-being. The Regional Parks Foundation supports healthier communities by helping people get outdoors and stay active. We provide funding for everything from water safety programs and trail gear to rescue equipment, giving park visitors and staff the tools and confidence they need to safely enjoy our parks and recreational spaces. In 2024:
- 19,702 Miles completed by finishers of the Annual Trails Challenge
- 1,338 Participated in Parks Prescription programs
- 432 Kids gained water safety skills through swim lessons and Aquatic Adventure Camp
Environmental Stewardship
As climate change continues to shape our world, the Foundation is committed to protecting habitats and wildlife so they can thrive. We support fuels reduction and grazing projects in the wildlife-urban interface to mitigate wildfire risks, helping keep both nature and nearby communities safe. In 2024:
- $40,000 Contributed for California Tiger Salamander habitat restoration at Black Diamond Mines
- $37,388 Awarded by California Fire Safe Council for mixed herd grazing
- $16,360 Provided for Western Pond Turtle monitoring at Sunol
Universal Access
At the Foundation, we believe parks must be accessible to everyone. Our goal is to remove barriers and create a welcoming space for all by supporting programs that reach historically underserved communities and reflect the East Bay’s rich diversity. We provide funding for transportation for school groups and translation services for park programs. We also fund activities for youth and adults with disabilities, collaborate with local libraries on the Backpacks to Parks initiative, and provide scholarships and free memberships to those in need. These efforts help make park visits more affordable and offer meaningful experiences that create lasting connections. In 2024:
- 6,309 Park visitors received bus transportation to community programs
- 1,270 All Abilities Day participants
- 1,138 Scholarships awarded for aquatic programs and summer camps
Community Engagement
Show your love for the parks through one of the many community engagement opportunities the Foundation offers. Partner with us to keep
parks accessible for all and to protect wildlife and open space for generations to come. We can’t do it without you!
In 2024, we celebrated many milestones, made possible in part by Foundation funding, including the ribbon-cutting of the newly renovated
Roberts Pool. We supported the East Bay Park District’s 90th anniversary at ParkFest and hosted Lakeside Laps, the Foundation’s first
half-marathon, 10K and 5K running and walking event in support of regional parks.
- $3.25 million Funds raised in 2024
- 16,098 Community members served
- 12,600 Regional Parks Foundation members
View or download the full 2024 Impact Report below.