COVID-19: Spring volunteer events in Philly parks canceled

This post was originally published on 3/31/2020. It will be regularly updated with the latest information.As Philadelphia works to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the region, we are taking precautions to ensure the safety of residents, staff, and volunteers. Volunteer events in Philly parks are canceled through at least May 10. Stay tuned for more information about Love Your Park Week 2020 in the coming weeks!

Please visit phila.gov/parksandrecreation for the most recent updates from Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and myphillypark.org for updates from Fairmount Park Conservancy. In the meantime, Philly parks (except playgrounds and athletic courts) remain open, and there are countless ways to enjoy them in safe and healthy ways.

Take a walk: While Philadelphia is under a Stay at Home Order, outdoor activities such as walking, running, cycling, or operating a wheelchair while using appropriate social distancing rules are still permitted. Research shows that spending 20 minutes in nature can reduce stress levels. Boxers’ Trail in East Fairmount Park offers paved and dirt paths.

Love your park – solo! Grab a trash bag and clean up your local park on your own. Show us your accomplishments by tagging #myphillypark on social media! Remember to observe social distancing guidelines, and do not organize group cleanup events.

Take note of your favorite nearby tree. Download the iNaturalist app (which you’ll need anyway for the City Nature Challenge in late April) and start to identify the plants and wildlife in your community!

If you do visit your local Philly park, please follow these safety guidelines on social distancing in public parks and trails:
1 - Stay home if you are sick, or showing or feeling any COVID-19 symptoms. These include fever, coughing, and/or troubled breathing.
2 - Keep at least six (6) feet of distance between yourself and others, even when outdoors.
3 - Avoid close contact, such as group sports, shaking hands, hugging, or high-fives.
4 - Wash hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not available.
5 - Avoid unnecessary contact with surfaces that are often touched, like benches and handrails.