To foster a sense of community, unity, and civic pride by volunteering together to improve city parks and neighborhoods.
FOSPA is a volunteer-led non-profit organization that supports the development and maintenance of parks and open green spaces in the City of Seaside. Volunteers create habitat for native plants, trees, pollinators, and wildlife, and foster a sense of community and civic pride in the cleanliness, safety, health and beauty of the city parks & neighborhoods. We host open volunteer workdays every Saturday morning (52 weeks per year!) in a rotation of Seaside public parks. Additionally, we collaborate with other non-profits and agencies to provide education and outreach to the community, as well as professional development opportunities for students and interns, emphasizing best management practices for natural resource stewardship in the context of Seaside public spaces. Finally, FOSPA supports multiple food-producing community garden initiatives, providing additional tangible pathways for community mutual support!
he project takes place in Seaside public parks and therefore primarily benefits Seaside. However, volunteers from other communities are welcome and do frequently participate in activities hosted by FOSPA. Additionally, the creation and demonstration of sustainable natural resource management in the context of urban public parks is of potential benefit and use to all Monterey County communities. Finally, the development of native plant habitat corridors supports conservation of both plants and animal communities which are connected across the county and region, and also have return benefits to human communities.
I love being part of FOSPA - it brings so much joy, connection, and purpose to our community. Volunteering in Seaside's parks has helped me make great memories, learn about native plants and wildlife, and feel proud of the positive impact we're making together. It's amazing what we can do when we come together for our city.
- Kalyn Foliaki, Seaside
