The mission of the ADOPT-A-PARK program is to engage Knox County citizens in helping to enhance our park system.

WHAT IS ADOPT-A-PARK?

ADOPT-A-PARK is a volunteer program that recruits and trains residents to assist in the general care, supervision and maintenance of neighborhood parks and greenways. Sponsors help augment, rather than replace, publicly funded maintenance and provide a significant impact on the quality of life in our community.

ADOPT-A-PARK is an opportunity for businesses, community groups, organizations, families and civic-minded individuals to lend a hand in the preservation and beautification of our county parkland. It also helps educate the public about the importance of providing clean and safe parkland and trails for the enjoyment of all.

ADOPT-A-PARK is flexible to suit your philanthropic goals. Your time and effort are all that’s needed. However, financial contributions are also welcome and are fully tax-deductible.

WHO CAN ADOPT A PARK?

Neighborhood associations Corporations Locally-owned businesses Schools Faith-based organizations

Girls Scouts and Boy Scouts Fraternities and sororities Clubs and service organizations Recreation councils Youth organizations

REQUIRMENTS:

• Group clean-ups once per month suggested minimum of 3-6 volunteers for 1-3 hours relative to the park size. Or a group may choose special projects three to four times per year suggested minimum of 4-8 volunteers for 3 hours relative to park size

• Two year renewable commitment
• Background check on leader, waivers for volunteers at workdays
• A $70 donation to assist in purchasing the sign. The donation may be waived for non-profit organizations.

HOW TO ADOPT:

Please check the “Up for Adoption” page to see what parks are available. Please contact the parks office at (865) 215-6600 to discuss potential parks. Once a good fit for a park is determined visit the “Application” page and complete the on-line form. For more information email us at adoptapark@knoxcounty.org.

 

BENEFITS OF ADOPTING A PARK:

The ADOPT-A-PARK program contributes to community pride and promotes positive social interaction while establishing a healthy lifestyle.

PERSONAL
You help enhance the quality of life in your community. Activity for a healthy lifestyle improves the physical and emotional well-being of participants.

ORGANIZATIONAL
Investing in communities where employees, customers or members live and work makes good business sense. Employee and member participation will create an atmosphere of social and economic concern through volunteerism and charitable giving. Help employees and members maintain a healthy lifestyle, contributing to better productivity and quality of life. Participation will increase organization name recognition and visibility.

RECOGNITION:
Knox County will place an ADOPT-A-PARK sign in the park bearing the name of the sponsor. The sign will remain while the sponsor participates in the program.

Knox County will list the sponsor’s name on the Knox County Parks and Recreation website and invites sponsors to a recognition event.