GPRF engages the community and fundraises through various activities in support of its mission.

• Friends of the Parks was formed in response to citizen concerns for the need to restore Ivey Terrace Park.

• In 1996, a public-private partnership was created between the City of Gainesville, Gainesville Parks and Recreation, and the 501(c)(3), Friends of Gainesville Parks, Inc.

• Friends of the Parks is funded through private donations and grants.

• Friends of the Parks is under the direction of its Board of Directors, a mixture of City Council and Board-appointed members.

• Friends of the Parks hosts the annual Sunday in the Parks Butterfly Release.

• The non-profit focuses on:

  • Restoring the Rock Creek Greenway Corridor, including streambank restoration, erosion control, landscape beautification, and the construction of multi-use trails

  • Acquiring land for parks and greenways to develop a greenway network in partnership with the City of Gainesville

  • Maintain and beautify parks and greenways

  • Increase connectivity and greenspace awareness through educational programs

• In 2023, the organization changed its name to Gainesville Parks & Recreation Foundation.

• Creation of the Rock Creek Park, or "Gateway Park," dedicated in 2001

• Land acquisition along the linear corridor

• Master Plan development for the Rock Creek Greenway

• Stormwater management and streambank stabilization

• Restoration of Ivey Terrace Phases I, II, and III

• Annual Butterfly Release

• Sidewalk Initiative (In partnership with the City of Gainesville Sidewalk Master Plan)