Communicators Network: Spring Recap

Beyond the well-worn trails…

The Metroparks latest marketing focus promotes new programs with a “More to See. More to Do.” campaign. Danielle described how they are also working to engage Gen Z individuals through TikTok, Instagram, and relationships with social media influencers.

Expanding access to swimming

Danielle described another exciting endeavor at the Metroparks: Swim Lesson Partnerships. Every summer, more than 25 people drown in Michigan. Unfortunately, that number has nearly doubled during the last year. For this reason, the Metroparks put water safety at the start of every swimming partnership.

Studies have shown that 70% of children who live in the City of Detroit have little-to-no swimming experience. Danielle described how the Metroparks are working to leverage the great work that communities and partners are already doing and build on that work to enhance water safety throughout Michigan.

This also means removing barriers for kids who can’t afford swimming lessons. The broader goal is to expand equity so that every kid in our state and region has access to the same water resources.

Metroparks swim partnerships allow free participation to all students. Classes are taught by certified instructors, based on skill level and age. Metroparks funding is used for instructors, swimsuits, goggles, and swim caps. Many locations were chosen because they provide easier access to public transportation. In addition to learning water safety, participants nurture a lifelong appreciation of water recreation, which has countless benefits. The Metroparks are also hoping this exposure may help with resolving another persistent challenge: workforce. The Metroparks are always working to promote lifeguard positions, which are a persistent challenge to fill around the region for most providers.

These new initiatives are a wonderful addition to an already vibrant park system that greatly enhances Southeast Michigan and the entire state. As you can see in the image below, the Metroparks provide benefits in everything from health and wellness to stormwater infiltration. If you have ever been to one of the 13 Huron-Clinton Metroparks, you know just how special they are. If you haven’t, I highly recommend getting out to one this summer and attending one of their brand-new programs! Whatever your preferred type of recreation is, there is something for you at the Metroparks.

The Communicators Network found Danielle’s presentation both informative and inspiring, as each community can benefit from access to the parks and the marketing expertise Danielle provided. An engaging discussion followed, especially regarding lessons learned from HCMA’s community needs assessment. We hope you can join us for another engaging Communicators Network meeting, which will be on July 13 at the SEMCOG offices.

Southeast Michigan’s outdoor event season has begun!

And now for a quick rundown of events shared by Southeast Michigan’s Communicators:

• Sunday, May 21 is Huron River Day at Gallup Park in the City of Ann Arbor. Learn, explore, and have fun celebrating Ann Arbor’s wonderful freshwater with discounted boat rentals, children’s activities, river exhibits, music, food trucks/carts, and more. This event is being hosted by the City of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, and many more. The City of Ann Arbor festival and event season also includes their Wednesday Farmers’ Market, beginning May 3.
• The City of Livonia is re-opening their three outdoor pools this summer, with various swimming classes offered. May 6 was the grand opening of Ben Celani Play Area, an all-inclusive playground that is wheelchair accessible and features an all-users swing and zipline. The playground is a part of Bicentennial Park and a wonderful addition to the city.
• The Oakland County Road Commission (OCRC) previewed a bit of everyone’s favorite parts of summer: road construction season! Jokes aside, the OCRC has continued to enhance its efforts to communicate invaluable and accurate information about road improvements, and roundabouts. Visit their website to see how they are keeping everyone up-to-date on progress with work zone cameras, including a significant project with Great Lakes Water Authority at East Avon Road.
• Macomb County will have a variety of events and offerings, including the annual Sprint and Splash: a 5k (run/walk) duathlon: which combines a 5K run and a 2-mile paddle using a kayak or stand-up paddle board. There is also a 2-mile Paddle Race (kayak or stand-up paddleboard). This event will take place at Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township.
• The City of Birmingham has many events this summer to check out, including movies at Booth Park, local concerts, Art Birmingham, May 13-14, and Day on the Town, a sidewalk shopping event on July 29.
• The City of Dearborn’s many exciting activities and events include their 42nd annual Homecoming festival, which attracts over 100,000 attendees. The event is returning to Ford Field Park from August 4-6. A large bocce ball tournament will take place the first week in August, and the 75th anniversary of Camp Dearborn (located in Milford) is being celebrated this summer.
• Dearborn also is excited about a 30-million-dollar investment in three new Peace (Park Equity and Access for Civil Engagement) parks in the city, plus significant improvements to existing parks.
• The Great Lakes Water Authority has finished the restoration of the Hurlbut Memorial Gate at their Water Works Park, which includes a new eagle statue.
• Highland Township is equally excited for their slew of summer events, which include a summer concert series at Highland Station, their farmer’s market, and many other fun days.