Tacoma Parks Foundation

NEWSLETTER | August 2025

In This Issue:



  • Interview with Parks Tacoma Staff - Sheryl Blessing
  • TPF Board Cleans Up!
  • Volunteer Opportunity

Building a Circle of Resilience

From her work at Summer Late Nights, Parks Tacoma's Sheryl Blessing has seen teens discover belonging, try new skills, and step into leadership alongside their peers. In this piece, she reminds us that these moments don’t happen by chance, they happen because the community comes together to provide safe, welcoming spaces for young people. As this summer draws to a close, she shares why continued support is vital to ensuring the program can open its doors again next year.

The TPF Board Cleans Up

On a sunny Saturday morning in July, members of the TPF Board came together to lend a hand at Oaktree Park. A Parks Tacoma steward provided all the equipment needed to make a big impact by removing invasive plant species, cleaning up debris, and performing general maintenance to this beloved community park. The board is passionate about parks and has a clean-up planned every quarter to further the mission of TPF.  

Volunteer in your Community Parks

Tacoma area parks are community treasures that welcome thousands of people each year. Just about every weekend, there are opportunities for you to gather friends and family, or come by yourself and meet some wonderful people, to spend an hour or two at one of more than 2,800 acres of developed parks and natural areas. It’s easy and fun - and park stewards will provide all the equipment needed to remove invasive species and general clean up.

China Lake Volunteer Work Party

Saturday, September 6th at 9:00 am


Join Park Steward Maggie in removing invasive species, plant beneficial native plants, support local pollinators and maintain the restoration site at China Lake Park!


Important things to know:

  • Please plan to meet near the park entrance at 9:00 am.
  • Restrooms not available at the park.
  • Leather gloves if you have them, water bottle, and a snack.
  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes or boots with long pants and long sleeves.
  • Dress for the weather. Work party will take place rain or shine.


The mission of the Tacoma Parks Foundation is to cultivate a community invested in providing parks and recreation access for all.

www.tacomaparksfoundation.org

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