Tag: Community Partnership

Eagle Scout Project Honors Legendary Tuskegee Airmen in Veteran’s Park 

Posted on by Elena Burge

 

Gregory Rubio of Boy Scout Troop 281 poses with members of the Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapter of Greater Sacramento in front of the newly unveiled memorial signs. Photo: CRPD 

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA – On Saturday, September 7, community members gathered to celebrate the unveiling of a set of informational signs memorializing the legendary Tuskegee Airmen installed by Boy Scout Gregory Rubio from Troop 281 in Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Veteran’s Park. The ceremony garnered over 200 attendees between Facebook Live viewers and community members at the event, including members of the Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapter of Greater Sacramento, CRPD Staff and community members. 

A line-up of speakers shared remarks about the historical significance of the project, including Gregory and several members of the Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapter of Greater Sacramento. “[The Tuskegee Airmen] fought a war, but they fought an even bigger war for rights – the right to vote, the right to go to school. Some of these men could have been shot if they went off their base,” said Howard Williams, the President of the Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapter of Greater Sacramento. “By doing this [project], you are doing an honor to the men who served many years ago under not only unfavorable conditions, but harmful conditions. Some of these men and their families, you don’t read about them now, they don’t teach about them in schools.” 

In June 2023, Gregory approached CRPD with an idea for his Eagle Scout project. Gregory proposed creating a memorial to honor the Tuskegee Airmen, the legendary group of Black Air Force pilots who served in Europe during World War II.  Gregory’s vision centered on the creation of memorial signs that would share the remarkable story of the Tuskegee Airmen, with special focus on their connection to the local community. Veteran’s Park, located near Mather Air Force Base, where a squadron of the Tuskegee Airmen were stationed, was the perfect site for this tribute. 

After Gregory’s initial outreach to CRPD, a partnership quickly developed. CRPD worked alongside him to guide the project through the approval process, helping him refine his proposal, set expectations for the monument’s design and determine the ideal location for the memorial signs within Veteran’s Park. As the project took shape in early 2024, Gregory dove into research on the Tuskegee Airmen. He collaborated with the Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapter of Greater Sacramento to ensure the historical accuracy of the memorial’s content, while CRPD’s communications team worked with him on the visual design of the signs.  

The memorial is composed of three panels, each sharing information about the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, their societal impact and their relevance in local history. Photo: CRPD 

In May 2024, the signs were ordered, and preparations for installation began. On August 24, Gregory, with members of his troop, family and staff from CRPD, gathered at Veteran’s Park to install the memorial signs. The new memorial stands not only as a testament to the Tuskegee Airmen’s extraordinary service but also as an example of what can be achieved when a young leader and a community come together. Thanks to Gregory’s hard work and collaboration with CRPD, Veteran’s Park now serves as a place of remembrance for the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. 

Gregory poses with his father and troop leader, Phillip Rubio, in front of the memorial signs. Photo: CRPD 

 

CRPD Supplies a Success

Posted on by Elena Burge
 

Cordova Recreation & Park District and Folsom Cordova Unified School District staff stand with school supply donations for the Families in Transition Services program. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – This summer, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) continued their commitment to supporting the community through their Community Engagement Program.

Over the last few weeks, the Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and staff contributed donations to a school supply drive for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District’s (FCUSD) Families in Transition (FIT) Services program. More than 700 items were collected and included supplies such as calculators, binders, scissors, art supplies, notebooks and paper.

The Families in Transition Services program offers vital support to students and families facing challenges such as housing, food and healthcare insecurity. To ensure every student can start the school year prepared and focused on their academic success, the program provides essential supplies to those in need. In supporting this program, Cordova Recreation & Park District hopes to continue their commitment to community upliftment and youth empowerment.

“Here at CRPD, our staff focus on their professional strengths and in supporting Families in Transition and providing school supplies to students in FCUSD, we are excited to support our youth in the community to focus on growing their strengths, rather than focusing on where their school supplies or resources are coming from,” said Cordova Recreation and Park District General Manager Patrick Larkin. “We fully support this program, and we are committed to fostering this partnership with FCUSD throughout the year.”

Though the Families in Transition Services program accepts school supplies, monetary donations also allow the program to better support the community and continue to provide an essential array of resources to families in need. To learn more about the program or donate, visit www.fcusd.org/educational-services/social-emotional-learning-sel-and-educational-equity/families-in-transition.

CRPD board of directors

 Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Board of Directors and staff pose with school supply donations for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District’s Families in Transition Services program. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

 

Rosemont Community Foundation Receives Award of Recognition

Posted on by Elena Burge
 

Members of the Rosemont Community Foundation pose alongside Cordova Recreation and Park District Directors and staff after accepting their award of recognition at the Cordova Recreation and Park District’s regular board meeting on June 19. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation and Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – During the Cordova Recreation and Park District’s board meeting on June 19, the Rosemont Community Foundation was presented with an award of recognition from the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts for the Rosemont Community Poles Project.

The Rosemont Community Foundation was honored with the Outstanding Community Organization/Partner Award by the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts at their conference in May, where they were recognized for their outstanding commitment to fostering community through a community beautification project. Kathy Gee, community advocate and board director, accepted the award on behalf of the Rosemont Community Foundation.

Cordova Recreation and Park District board members, staff and Kathy Gee celebrate the installation of the Rosemont Community Poles Project. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation and Park District

The Rosemont Community Poles Project was an effort by the community to improve the Rosemont community through the addition of art that reflected their community’s values. Gee brought the idea to Cordova Recreation and Park District, suggesting that four poles, decorated by community organizations to capture the spirit of the Rosemont Community, be installed in the newly-refurbished butterfly garden in the Cordova Recreation and Park District’s Rosemont Community Park.

Once Gee received a grant from SMUD for the project, the Rosemont Community Foundation worked in collaboration with Cordova Recreation and Park District to install the project. You can now see community poles from Cordova Recreation and Park District, Girl Scout Troop 1363, Golden Pond Senior Living and Atonement Lutheran Church in Rosemont Community Park.  Each pole is distinctive, painted with symbols, pictures and words that reflect the values of the Rosemont community and its residents.

As the project’s dedication ceremony was fast approaching, the project experienced a major setback. The hand-painted poles had been nearly covered in black spray paint, appearing to ruin the hours of hard work the community had put into the project. In an act of resilience, Cordova Recreation and Park District staff acted quickly, using specialized graffiti removal supplies to nearly return the artwork to its original condition. Their efforts allowed the Rosemont Community Foundation to proceed with the project’s dedication ceremony as planned.

Since the project’s initial installation, the community is set to add more poles, with several similar projects in the works throughout the community. This award celebrates the spirit that inspired this project and its positive influence on the community.

Readers can catch up on Cordova Recreation and Park District’s newest projects and developments at www.cordovarpd.gov. 

 

CRPD Staff Donates to Unhoused Students

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff and Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) staff with donations for Homeless Student Services. From left to right: CRPD CFO Matt Goodell, FCUSD Social Emotional Learning & Equity Director Dr. Iyuanna Pease, CRPD HR Manager Andrea White.

 
Our Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community.
 
During this year’s fall quarter, we collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Families in Transition (F.I.T) Program to provide donations to students in need. FCUSD F.I.T. program helps ensure children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and provides resources to their families. Throughout the quarter, CRPD staff and Board of Directors contributed Target gift cards to be used for shoes, clothing and other essentials. On December 16, 2022, CRPD Chief Financial Officer Matt Goodell and Human Resources Manager Andrea White proudly presented FCUSD with donations totaling $1,420.
 
“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in Rancho Cordova. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”
 
CRPD is proud to collaborate with FCUSD Families in Transition Program to help support local students.
 
“FCUSD appreciates the generosity and strong partnership we share with the staff at CRPD,” shared FCUSD Social Emotional Learning & Equity Director Dr. Iyuanna Pease.
 

Back to School with CRPD!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Our Community Engagement Program continues with Back to School donations!

The Community Engagement Program, led by our General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community.

“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in our community. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”

This quarter, we collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) to collect school supplies to build Back to School bags for students in need. Throughout the months of April to June, our staff contributed various Back to School supplies including backpacks, notebooks, binders and more. On July 21, 2022, we presented FCUSD with over 500 supplies of Back to School items for students. “Folsom Cordova Unified School District is grateful for the generous donation of school supplies from Cordova Recreation & Park District employees,” said Education Services Liaison Marjorie Diaz. “Your partnership is key in order to support the needs of students experiencing homelessness. With these school supplies the kids in our program will be ready for the first day of school and looking forward to a successful school year.” We are so proud to collaborate with FCUSD to help support local students!

 

Congrats to Kristy – The CRPF Photo Contest Winner!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation (CRPF) has announced their first ever photography contest winner!

During the month of May and June, CRPF encouraged community members to enter their first ever #CommunityPotlight #PhotographyContest. Members of the community submitted photos they felt represented the beauty of our diverse community. These entries could have been of people playing at any of our 43+ parks, engaging in any of our classes and programs or playing at the Cordova Golf Course.

 

After much deliberation, CRPF is excited to announce that Kristy is the winner of the contest! Kristy has received a $50 Cordova Recreation & Park District gift card. Moreover, Kristy’s submission is now the cover of our Fall/Winter 2022-2023 Recreation Guide! When asked about the submission process, Kristy stated, “My son has been playing soccer through the Rancho Cordova Soccer Club for the past few years. [My son] has learned so much about teamwork and good sportsmanship by being on a team. After each game, the parents come together to make a cheer tunnel. No matter how tired the kids were during the game, or how many boo-boos and tears occurred on the field, the kids immediately became happy and felt proud of themselves whenever they ran through the cheer tunnel”. Congratulations again Kristy and thank you to everyone who participated in the contest! Be sure to be on the lookout for the next #CommunitySpotlight #PhotographyContest!

 

 

CRPD Staff Donates to Unhoused Students

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

The Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (District) Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by District General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community.

Cordova Recreation & Park District staff and Folsom Cordova Unified School District staff with donations for Homeless Student Services.
 
During this quarter, the District collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Homeless Student Services. FCUSD Homeless Student Services helps ensure homeless children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high quality education and provides resources to families. Throughout the quarter, District staff and Board of Directors contributed various Target gift cards. On December 17, 2021, District staff presented FCUSD with donations totaling $940 to be used for new shoes and clothing.
 
“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in Rancho Cordova. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”
 
CRPD is proud to collaborate with FCUSD Homeless Student Services to help support local students.
 

Lend a Hand, Give a Can!

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
 
Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff with 500 food donations for the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. Photo: CRPD.
Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff with over 500 food donations for the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. Photo: CRPD.

The Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a program that focuses on giving back to the community. Over the last few weeks, District staff contributed food items including pasta, snacks, instant noodles, rice, baby formula and canned foods such as soup, veggies and chili.

 

“More of our neighbors will be turning to food banks during the holidays – many of them for the first time. During a season that is traditionally filled with festive gatherings and holiday meals, many people will not be able to afford food for themselves or their families,” said Larkin. “We are proud of our donation to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker, who have become accustomed to this increased level of distribution and will continue to connect people to food. CRPD will continue to support and donate to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker that provides this critical service in our community.”

 

On December 3, 2021, District staff presented over 500 food items to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. The Rancho Cordova Food Locker provides an emergency supply of food for individuals and families in the community.

 

The Rancho Cordova Food Locker accepts more than just cans, however, canned, boxed or bottled non-perishable foods are welcomed. To learn more about the Rancho Cordova Food Locker or to donate items, visit www.ranchocordovafoodlocker.org.

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District Staff Donates to Unhoused Students

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
 
From the left, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Human Resources Manager Andrea White, CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin and Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Education Services Liaison Marjorie Diaz with donations for FCUSD Homeless Student Services.
From the left, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Human Resources Manager Andrea White, CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin and Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Education Services Liaison Marjorie Diaz with donations for FCUSD Homeless Student Services.
 

Our Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community. During this quarter, the District collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Homeless Student Services. FCUSD Homeless Student Services helps ensure homeless children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high quality education and provides resources to families.

 

“FCUSD works hand-in-hand with state and federal education programs to provide stability, access, and support for academic success for homeless children and youth, including preschool-aged children,” said Director of Categorical Programs & Grants Elena Cabrera. “Our district Homeless Student Services fosters partnerships with local agencies, businesses and non-profits organization in order to connect families to services beyond the classroom. Helping others takes teamwork and collaboration rooted in caring for our most vulnerable students.”

Throughout the quarter, District staff and Board of Directors contributed various Target gift cards to be used for new shoes and clothing for unhoused students.

“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in Rancho Cordova. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”

 

On August 23, 2021, Larkin and Human Resources Manager Andrea White presented Marjorie Diaz, Education Services Liaison at FCUSD, with donations totaling $1,034 to be used for new shoes and clothing.

 

“FCUSD is extremely grateful for the generosity of CRPD employees, and the care and concern they have for our students who are homeless and foster youth,” shared Superintendent Dr. Sarah Koligian. “Their donation will provide many basic supplies that will help eliminate barriers to their education.”

 

CRPD is proud to collaborate with FCUSD Homeless Student Services to help support students as they begin the school year.

 

CRPD & Cordova High School Partnership Brings Holiday Cheer to Students-In-Need

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

On December 12, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff donated $835 in various gift cards to students-in-need at Cordova High School. In partnership with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District, CRPD continued a tradition of holiday donations, reflecting a fierce commitment to their mission to serve community needs.

 
From left to right: Office Manager Sharday White, Human Resource Manager Andrea White and General Manager Patrick Larkin bring bag full of holiday card to Cordova High School Principal Jerad Hyden and Counselor Mark Levy.
 
Hand-written notes from staff will accompany the gifts.

CRPD’s General Manager Patrick Larkin, Human Resource Manager Andrea White and Office Manager Sharday White met with Principal Jerad Hyden and Counselor Mark Levy to drop off the holiday gifts. Each homeless student will receive an envelope with gift cards to restaurants, clothing stores and/or entertainment centers, and a hand-written note from a CRPD staff member.

 

Cordova High School’s Principal Jerad Hyden wrote a letter to Mayor of Rancho Cordova Robert McGarvey, acknowledging CRPD for their efforts. “We are truly speechless… to think of the combined efforts in raising this amount of money for our most vulnerable students is a task worthy of the highest level of praise,” Jerad said. “The remarkable caveat, this money was raised internally, that is to say, it was completely donated by the wonderful staff of CRPD!”

 

“A huge thank you to Patrick and his staff for making a difference in the lives of students who often have very little to look forward to and be thankful for given this time of the year. Our dedicated CHS Counselors have devised a plan to ensure this gift is in the hands of each of our students before winter break,” Jerad wrote.

 

CRPD staff members were thrilled about this opportunity and jumped at the chance to give back. “I was so excited about this decision to focus on high school students this year.” Recreation Supervisor Nina Sinor said. “I wanted to do so much more than just the gift cards because these kids are our neighbors. But to be able to provide such an impressionable age group with positivity and something that says, “we care about you because you’re in our community,” it just warms your heart. I hope we can continue to do this every year,” Nina said.

 

New to the District, Park Services Supervisor II, Tammy Rominger, felt the need to give, recalling the high school years as a challenging time of transition. “I was lucky to have a home during this vital time of transitioning to adulthood, so my hope was that this gesture would not only provide them with a necessity, but also let them know that we care,” Tammy said. “Teenagers have the desire to be independent and these gift cards can help provide a sense of pride and responsibility. I want the gift to be encouraging so that one day when they are successful, they’ll remember this moment, and give back too,” Tammy said.

 

CRPD staff wishes all a joyous holiday and Happy New Year!

 

Coming Full Twirl

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

This year, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) has joined other parks and recreation agencies state-wide in recognizing Parks Make Life Better!® Month (PMLB Month). Parks Make Life Better!® Month is a celebration of Parks and Recreation as a community service, and a demonstration of how these services model compassion and inclusivity, and promote social equity.

 

In celebration of PMLB Month, CRPD has chosen to feature the story of one community member each week during the month of July to showcase community pride, recognize individual contributions and encourage the utilization of parks and recreation services.

 

Part 1: Mariah Palmiter and Mather Sports Complex

 
Mariah (right) and fellow competitors at the World Championships
 

For Mariah Palmiter, Parks Make Life Better!® Month means the world to her, literally. Her relationship with Cordova Recreation & Park District is one that led her to worldwide competitions and championships, including a 2nd place team finish and an individual top ten placement at the International Cup. After watching her sister participate in the Baton Twirling program at Mather Sports Complex (MSC), Mariah began twirling with Revolution Twirl Club at age 10.

 

“I only ever remember practicing at Mather. I spent eight hours a day, every single day, over summer there when I was young. I see the days I spent practicing at Mather as the ones that built important relationships for me. Some that mean so much to me personally, and some that have opened doors in the business world. It’s like a home to me, and where I’ve met some lifelong friends,” Mariah said.

 

Mariah enjoyed the sport and the program’s environment so much, she twirled throughout her career at Oakmont High School, competing at the local, regional, national and international levels. Her dedication and passion for twirling manifested in the form of full-ride scholarship offers to both the University of Hawaii and the University of Memphis.

 
Mariah (front, center) and the Revolution Twirl Club
 

Because she had family in Memphis, Mariah chose to accept that scholarship and move to Tennessee to pursue collegiate twirling at the age of 17. When asked how CRPD/Revolution Twirl Club program helped prepare her for the collegiate and professional world, Mariah said “These long days of physical and mental work prepare our athletes for a full-time job. The girls I coach are 16-17, ready to compete in France with the world team and then twirl professionally. I was the same. Hard work and dedication are learned in this program, and the characteristics you build, you can continue adding to with a little bit more work,” Mariah said.

 

RETURNING TO HER ROOTS

In 2013, Mariah returned to her roots and moved back to Sacramento to raise her daughter. A few years later, Mariah found herself missing the team environment and athletic component of twirling. Though she only had one year of dance training, her experience with twirling at MSC prepared her to make the Sacramento King’s Dance Team in 2016. “The twirling program opened up professional opportunities in the dance world for me. Normally that door would be closed. But going through this program allowed me to combine my twirling training with a bit of dance, to still be an asset to a professional NBA dance team. Plus, now I still have a great network that keeps professional doors open, like coaching or judging,” Mariah said.

 
Mariah and her daughter at a Sacramento King’s game
 

Part of this network includes Kellie Pearlman, Mariah’s former coach and current Revolution Twirl Club Coach. “Kellie is like family to me,” Mariah said. When Mariah returned to her community, she found a way to give back to the program that shaped her into the professional athlete and person she is today. Following in the footsteps of Kellie, through coaching, Mariah gets to share her knowledge of the sport and mentor young twirlers in life. Kellie, who also began twirling in her youth with Cordova Recreation & Park District and returned to coach for the program years later said, “and to think it all started with a rec class at Hagan Community Park!”

 

While Mariah coaches Baton Twirling, her daughter participates in CRPD’s Kuk Sool Won program, Jr. Kings Clinics, or other activities held at MSC. “There’s so many great things offered here, and I would rather my daughter be running around, staying active, than sitting at home in front of a screen. The complex has so many options, which is great. Especially because you never know what you’ll like until you try it!” Mariah said.

 
 

With the variety of program options for her daughter to try while she is working, and a tighter budget to manage while she completes her master’s degree, Mariah feels grateful for parks and recreation facilities like Mather Sports Complex. “Going through parks and recreation classes is so helpful, especially the financial aspect for families. Competitive teams are so expensive, and you can get the same, or almost the same, training for less through rec. Plus, the opportunity to try classes without a huge commitment is also great for the little ones,” Mariah said.

 

BEYOND TWIRLING

Beyond twirling and programs for her daughter, Mariah believes another great thing about frequenting Mather Sports Complex is seeing friends who participate in the adult programs and the evolution of her home. “While I’m coaching, sometimes I run into friends playing in the adult sports leagues. That’s fun because some of them were basketball players I met when I was young practicing here. All of us got really excited when the floor was redone with the King’s. Plus, we got to be first to utilize the remodel! All of the upgrades have been incredible,” Mariah said.

 

Mariah’s experiences showcase not only the lifelong physical benefits of program participation, but also the incredible relationships. “You meet other program participants when you’re around each other all the time, and when you spend enough time together, lasting friendships form,” Mariah said.

 
Mariah performing at Oakmont High School
 

Kellie and Mariah recommend Baton Twirling because it helps improve confidence, hand-eye coordination, dance and life skills. Visit www.crpd.com for more information about Revolution Twirling Club’s classes offered by CRPD at Mather Sports Complex.

 

About CRPD: Cordova Recreation & Park District is one of the largest independent special districts in Northern California serving over 120,000 residents and four school districts in the greater Sacramento area. CRPD provides over 40 parks and recreational facilities, as well as athletic camps, enrichment classes, educational programs and special events for the community.

 

Making Money Moves: CRPD partners with Golden 1 CU & CalPERS for financial wellness luncheon

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

[Rancho Cordova, CA., Feb. 28, 2019] – Last Thursday, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) hosted a Wellness Potluck Luncheon focused on financial health for all employees. Thanks to Golden 1 Credit Union and CalPERS, employees were not only given insight to the benefits of financial freedom but were also able to build relationships with these partners, creating lasting resources for their future. During this luncheon, CRPD appropriated the financial-thoughtfulness theme to raise money for the Children’s Funding Assistance program. This event showcased values of both employers: supporting staff by providing resources and opportunities in their personal and professional lives, and a commitment to giving back to the community.

 

Every year CRPD’s Human Resource Manager, Andrea White, organizes a health and wellness potluck. This year, she shifted the focus slightly to honor CRPD’s District Administrator’s theme of 2019 “health and wealth.” Coinciding with the Chinese New Year “year of the pig” philosophy, financial health is an equally important factor to consider when reviewing personal physical wellness. Researchers of social science and medicine everywhere have seen “money worries contribute to health worries,” including actual physical effects of financial stress: migraines, cardiovascular disease, insomnia, mental health (depression and mood disorder) all leading to absences from work (Nall, 2017 – everydayhealth.com).

 

Because of the health issues that can stem from financial strains (such as personal debt and home foreclosures), Andrea and CRPD felt it was evidently important to focus on helping their employees maintain financial stability, in turn eliminating any potential stress-inducing situations. To do so, Andrea looked to potential partners, specifically financial professionals, to bring awareness and education on the financial resources and benefits to her fellow employees.

 

“These potluck events really contribute to CRPD culture and the unity of our team because we don’t all get to see each other often. So, these opportunities not only give us time to socialize, recognize each other’s’ accomplishments and feel like a team, it also gives me a chance to remind people or let them know who and what their resources are,” Andrea said.

 

“Last year’s lunch focused on physical health, like joining walking groups or sports, but this year we wanted to focus on financial wellness, because we have really great partners available to us as resources. Golden 1 and CalPERS were excited to come share their knowledge with our employees and I am grateful to have them as an additional resource to me, too,” Andrea said.

 

Not only did CRPD’s Management team demonstrate financial conscientiousness at this event, they also prioritized sustainability in gifts provided and the allocation of potluck leftovers. Post-luncheon, all leftover vegetables and fruits were donated to the animals of the Hagan Community Barn. In addition, a speaker from the Golden 1 team gifted CRPD employees with local honey produced by young community entrepreneurs, students of the Folsom Cordova Unified School District.

 

Golden 1 Credit Union Membership Development Officer, Anson Call witnessed something special about CRPD’s staff during the luncheon. “What impressed me most was how CRPD’s staff was so eager to donate to the scholarship fund that offers programs to families who could not otherwise afford it. People were lining up to buy raffle tickets before they even took their seats. I have been at events before where those selling raffle tickets went from table to table to try to solicit donations. With CRPD, staff seemed to savor the opportunity to help with the scholarship program,” Call said.

 

Call also believes in the importance of partnerships being dedicated to the betterment of a community and overall providing service to others. “Golden 1 and CRPD are both about people helping people. Where CRPD helps people by encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors and be active, Golden 1 is committed to helping people by encouraging them to take a proactive role in their financial health,” Call said.

 

About CRPD: Cordova Recreation & Park District is one of the largest independent special districts in Northern California serving over 120,000 residents and four school districts in the greater Sacramento area. CRPD provides over 40 parks and recreational facilities, as well as youth & adult sports, camps, enrichment classes, educational programs and special events for the community.

 

 

Oh, the places you’ll go, if you love to read: CRPD Celebrates NEA’s Read Across America Week

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

In honor of Read Across America Week, Cordova Recreation & Park District’s District Administrator, Patrick Larkin, took it upon himself to spend his mornings reading to the children of Discovery Kids Preschool.

 

Patrick created this tradition for himself to spread the importance of reading among our community. “I truly value education initiatives like this that connect parents with their children, but also provide an opportunity to embrace the power of stories. Storytelling is vital to culture because it shaped the way history was passed down through generations. Plus, reading to them in this fun way helps them learn that reading is enjoyable. Research shows that reading for pleasure is just as important as required reading for school. It helps our youth build vocabulary, imagination and creativity. So, with that in mind, I love bringing the Cat in the Hat to our preschool kids because I get to encourage reading through the connectivity of stories,” Patrick said.

 

Patrick will attend all three Discovery Kids Preschool programs this week for story time, including March 1, the official Read Across America Day celebration for the National Education Association. Discovery Kids Preschool students will enjoy specially themed treats and crafts during each session with Patrick.

 

The National Education Association’s Read Across America Day is often celebrated on March 2, Dr. Seuss’ birthday. However, this program encapsulates much more than the famed children’s author’s date of birth. “NEA’s Read Across America is an annual reading motivation and awareness program that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading […] NEA’s Read Across America also provides NEA members, parents, caregivers, and children the resources and activities they need to keep reading on the calendar 365 days a year,” (www.readacrossamerica.org).

 

The NEA and CRPD call for story time with your children because of its impact in educational and social development. “In our diverse and complex society, students need books that provide both windows and mirrors if we are going to create more people who feel included and recognized, and who understand that the world is far richer than just their experiences alone,” (www.readacrossamerica.org).

 

A Royal Celebration: CRPD Celebrates New Partnerships by Unveiling Kings-Branded Basketball Court

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

On Thursday, Feb. 7, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) hosted hundreds of community members in the Mather Sports Center gymnasium to unveil a completely refinished, Sacramento Kings-branded gymnasium floor sponsored by the Sacramento Kings, Kaiser Permanente, the Good Tidings Foundation and Sacramento County. As part of the celebration, community members were invited to be a part of the ribbon-cutting and 100 local youth attended the free Jr. Kings basketball clinic hosted by the Sacramento Kings, Jr. Kings organization.

 

One of CRPD’s three main community centers, Mather Sports Complex was built in 1967 but not deeded to the District until 1994. Located at the front door of a major transportation corridor (Highway 50) and the entrance to a main commerce center, Mather Sports Complex has been an easily accessible location for the past 52 years. However, it was not until CRPD’s forward-thinking Board of Directors and management team took over and saw potential in the complex, investing in additions like the Skate Park and synthetic turf fields, that made Mather Sports Complex the regional sports destination it is today. Now, as of February 2019, the Mather Sports Center has received all new lighting courtesy of SMUD, exterior and interior work, including painting, the refinished floor, bleacher upgrades and new basketball hoops.

 

Sacramento County Board of Supervisors’, Don Nottoli (District 5) played an instrumental role in bringing this project to life. “Mather Sports Complex was an ideal choice for the Kings’ first indoor court for many reasons, but mainly because it is a great host of working, living, playing and learning for our community. Our partnership with CRPD made it not only ideal, but a natural choice since they are the main provider of services and a wealth of resources for our community. Plus, the building has meaningful history as a military base property for the community and there is endless opportunity for future improvements,” Nottoli said.

 

With 20 years of service in this community, Nottoli says he was inspired by the people he serves. “I’ve spent a long time getting to know the people in this community, and not just meeting their needs, but exceeding their expectations is what we strive for. That’s why it was so rewarding to see the smiles on kids’ faces while they played at the event’s free clinic,” Nottoli said.

 

Vital to the success of this project and the organizer of said clinic, Director of Community Impact for the Sacramento Kings, Betty Low, discussed her team’s motive behind the floor renovation projects with the Good Tidings Foundation. “As part of our health initiative, we strive to get more kids playing basketball and being active. We feel the best way to do that is by building partnerships in the community to give kids a great space to play,” Low said.

 

As to why Mather was an ideal choice for the first indoor basketball court renovation, Low described it as a central, all-serving complex “CRPD uses this floor for everything: Basketball, volleyball, after school programs and summer programs. This was an important factor in choosing Mather Sports Center because the more kids are served at a facility like this, the more kids learn those great life lessons like perseverance, conflict resolution, communication and teamwork through sports,” Low said.

 

One of the clinic participants shared his excitement for not only the improvements to the gym, but also the opportunity to attend a free basketball clinic. “I hadn’t been to Mather in a few months and was so excited to see the gym. It looks so cool! The clinic was really fun too! My dad said I had to go finish homework, but I didn’t want to leave after. I’m really glad we went and thankful for the opportunity,” Jessie McDonald, a Gold River Discovery Center student said.

 

Low and Nottoli encourage community members to visit, experience and enjoy the renovated Mather Sports Center. Follow @CordovaRPD on social media to stay up-to-date with CRPD’s program offerings at Mather Sports Complex and visit www.crpd.com for more information about the Complex’s amenities.