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Our 2022 Annual Report is now available.
Parks California is working to revitalize Candlestick Point’s place as a vibrant community hub.
For so many in California, urban parks serve as a critical gateway to nature – and a springboard to exploration, appreciation for the protection of the environment, and lifelong relationships with parks.
With 280 diverse state parks across California – including beaches, mountains, deserts & urban green space – parks located in urban settings can face unique challenges stemming from climate change, lack of resources, and other social and environmental issues.
Candlestick Point State Recreation Area (SRA), founded in 1977 thanks to the efforts of local residents who organized for environmental justice, is one such urban park. This historic shoreline park provides access to open space and recreation such as fishing, biking, bird watching, hiking and windsurfing. Located in one of San Francisco’s most underinvested neighborhoods, Bayview Hunters Point, local residents have felt cut-off from the park for years, citing a number of concerns including lack of trust, safety, accessibility, belonging, and recreational opportunities.
Parks California, in partnership with California State Parks and other organizations, is actively working to rebuild the bond between the neighborhood and park, ensuring that the park can reclaim its integral role within the community.
Your support can make a meaningful impact in revitalizing this vital connection and restoring the community’s enjoyment of this valuable park.
Our Impact
Since 2021, with support from private philanthropists and partners, Parks California has been:
Rebuilding trust: Through innovative partnerships, expanded community engagement, and centering racial and social justice within the relationship building between Candlestick Point SRA and the community, we are ensuring the park reflects the community’s needs and interests. Parks California supports a Community Engagement Coordinator who functions as an extension of the Candlestick Point SRA team. She has been able to establish a consistent presence in the community and leads outreach efforts that result in new partnerships, including launching a Neighborhood Park Advisory Council.
Beautifying and improving the park: Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere in our parks is crucial, as it leaves a lasting impression and fosters a sense of care, community ownership and inclusivity. We have implemented multiple park improvements, including refurbishment of the community garden, and working with local artists to design and paint vibrant murals throughout the park, each representative of the community’s rich cultural identity and pride.
Centering community-input in designing park activities: With input from the Bayview Hunters Point community and managed by a dedicated Parks California engagement coordinator who works alongside park staff, Candlestick Point SRA now has an robust calendar of events. Activities foster physical wellness, emotional well-being, knowledge about nature and biodiversity, artistic expression, and social engagement so that everyone feels a strong sense of connection to the park.
Highlights include:
Help Us
To sustain and advance the progress we have made, we need your support. Our goal is to raise $600,000 to maintain and expand our activities in 2024 and 2025. Specifically, new funding will be used to:
With your help, the park and its magnificent coastal setting will be able to better serve residents for years to come. Candlestick Point SRA will fulfill its potential as a community hub, delivering health, social and environmental benefits to the community.
Help Us
Director of Development – Corporations & Foundations
skleinman@parkscalifornia.org
Development Director
mbridges@parkscalifornia.org
