Our Programs

The United Parks As One (UPAO) Park Rangers Program is a transformative initiative designed to engage Newark’s youth and adults in environmental stewardship and community empowerment. Originally founded by the Trust for Public Land, the program is now managed by United Parks As One, a coalition of park groups, playground advocates, and open space supporters working to reenergize Newark’s neighborhoods.

Historically, the Park Rangers Program has run as a six-week summer initiative for teens, where participants not only cleaned up parks like Jesse Allen Park, Mildred Helms Park, and Nat Turner Park but also gained valuable life skills. During the program, teens learned about the importance of indigenous plants and trees that thrive in Newark’s environment, fostering a deeper connection to the land and nature around them. Life skills development was a key focus, with segments dedicated to leadership, environmental advocacy, and personal wellness, including yoga sessions.

The program’s mission is to train future advocates for environmental justice and address environmental concerns that impact Newark’s residents. By providing hands-on experience, the program empowers participants to become leaders in their communities, promoting sustainable practices and environmental health.

In urban areas like Newark, where open and green spaces are scarce due to the city’s industrial past, the Park Rangers Program represents a critical effort to improve air quality, manage stormwater, and create healthier environments for residents. Through these efforts, UPAO seeks to reclaim and revitalize neglected spaces, ensuring that Newark’s green infrastructure grows alongside its communities.

National Night Out is a national annual event that happens on the 1st Tuesday in August each year. National Night Out promotes partnerships between communities and public-safety agencies.  United Parks As One was one of the first community-based organizations in Newark to host a National Night Out event.  That event eventually blossomed into annual celebrations at Jesse Allen Park, Mildred Helms Park, and Nat Turner Park.  Each event features live entertainment; refreshments; interactive displays presented by local organizations in fields such as the arts, education, and healthcare; face painting; and an array of other fun activities.  The Trust for Public Land, the City of Newark, and Victoria Foundation are the main partners for the celebrations. 

Established in 2019, the United Parks As One Small Grants Program funds community-led events at parks by providing grants ranging from $200 to $500 to volunteer groups that have limited access to other funding.  The events are free and open to the public.

Each year since 2009, United Parks As One, with financial support from The Trust for Public Land, has hosted an annual celebration to recognize the achievements of local open space advocates as well as other community leaders and organizations. This festive event includes the presentation of awards in the areas of art, community service, education, innovation, partnership, and youth achievement. Participants enjoy dinner, live performances, and informational displays.