January 2024

Volunteers complete a mural at the Fort Washington Forest Community Center playground build in partnership with KABOOM!, 2023

A volunteer assisting a child with a game at the Department's annual Hispanic Festival, 2023

Volunteers assisting with transcribing at Riversdale House Museum for Good Neighbor Day, 2022

Photo Credit: UMD Office of Community Engagement

Riversdale House volunteer Gaby makes her visit to Nats Stadium for volunteer appreciation night, 2023

M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George's County thanks you, our dedicated volunteers for all of your efforts throughout 2023. We are filled with immense gratitude as we look back on the impact, accomplishments, and moments of joy that you all have brought to our Department. Your willingness to give your time, skills, and passion has created positive change, touching the lives of those we serve in profound ways. Your dedication has made 2023 a year to remember, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in 2024!

MLK Day of Service

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a federal holiday in the United States that honors the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is observed annually on the third Monday of January and is used not only as a time to reflect on King's legacy but also an opportunity for Americans to engage in volunteerism and acts of service in their communities.

On Monday, January 15, the Volunteer Services Unit had the pleasure of hosting a day of service in honor of Dr. King's legacy. Youth volunteers came out and created a total of 107 (68 for men & 38 for women) toiletry kits filled with personal hygiene items such as soap, lotion, and deodorant for individuals at local shelters!

Thanks to Department of Parks and Recreation staff and visitors who generously donated at our three Department locations. And a special thank you to the seniors who visit Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center. In addition to personal hygiene items, these individuals donated handmade masks.

Overall, MLK Day of Service serves as a powerful reminder that individuals can make a difference through acts of kindness, service, and a commitment to social justice. It honors the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by turning a day off into a day on, dedicated to building a better society. If you would like to commit more than just a day to serving the people in your community, visit pgparks.com/volunteer

David Wellington, Community Outreach Team member, 2022

We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the Department's Community Outreach Team! Members of the team can be found throughout the County hosting information tables at neighborhood, school and faith-based community meetings and events along with Department festivals and special events. Their commitment to making a positive impact in our community has not gone unnoticed. David Wellington of the Community Outreach "It's a wonderful joy servicing Prince Georgians...informing them of the many amenities Parks and Recreation has to offer."

If you are interested in volunteering and making a difference with the outreach team, visit pgparks.com/volunteer today!

Being a volunteer promotes overall well-being by positively impacting physical health, improving mental health, and fostering social connections!

Here's 3 ways volunteering can benefit you:

1. Helping others and making a positive impact on the community can lead to a sense of accomplishment and happiness.
2. Volunteering provides opportunities to meet new people and build social connections.
3. Volunteering has been shown to decrease anxiety, depression, and stress levels according to Cleveland Clinic.

Engaging in volunteer activities can have benefits for both the community and you, so get started today at pgparks.com/volunteer

Looking Ahead

From performances to history lessons to festivals, there are plenty of exciting M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation events and activities planned throughout the County as we commemorate Black History Month. Join us as we reflect, honor and commemorate the extraordinary achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history.

For more information, visit pgparks.com/blackhistory

Join us as we celebrate National Heart Health Month and learn about how we can live heart-healthy together!

Throughout February enjoy a variety of FREE virtual healthy cooking demonstrations and fitness opportunities.

Click here to sign up for classes & demos today!

M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George's County is celebrating county residents who are ages 100 years old with its annual Centenarian Luncheon Celebration!

If you know someone 100 years or older (who was born January 1, 1924 to December 31, 1924 or before) who resides in Prince George’s County and would like to invite them to attend and be honored, please register at pgparks.com/centenarian

Are you a student looking for Student-Service Learning hours?

The Department offers students the opportunity to complete a meaningful volunteer service within your community, gain a great learning experience, all while obtaining Student Service Learning hours.

From annual community days & festivals to summer day camps, we have an opportunity for you! Visit pgparks.com/volunteer to view available opportunities.

Stay connected with the latest happenings at the Department of Parks & Recreation! Our Live More, Play More weekly newsletter is packed with updates on upcoming community events, classes, workshops, and more! Subscribe here today!

Work Where You Play with The Department of Parks & Recreation! Discover our exciting job opportunities, from health & wellness to park maintenance, aquatics, information technology and more! We have a position for you, so apply today! Visit our website to explore current openings here.

If you have questions about volunteering or

student-service learning hours contact

jo-ann.martinez@pgparks.com. For ideas for upcoming newsletter features, contact

courtney.harvey@pgparks.com.