Equal Play Saint paul

Where play begins — and opportunity grow

Kid-designed. Community-led. Culturally relevant.

What are your Earliest Park Memories?

For many of us, it starts with feet kicking the air on a swing. Then running across open fields. Learning to shoot hoops. Playing soccer until the sun goes down. Outdoor play is more than fun. It helps children relieve stress, explore their world, take healthy risks, and develop problem-solving skills. Research shows that play supports executive function and improved learning outcomes — skills that help young people build resilience and bounce back from adversity later in life.

Why Equal Play Matters

Saint Paul is home to one of the most celebrated park systems in the country — a place where parks are woven into daily life and nearly every neighborhood has access to green space.

But proximity does not always mean opportunity.

Many neighbors of color and low-income communities still lack access to the quality play spaces, programs, and resources children need to thrive. Gaps in investment mean fewer safe places to play, fewer structured programs, and fewer opportunities for learning and growth.

The Equal Play Initiative exists to close these gaps — ensuring that every child, in every neighborhood, has access to play that supports well-being, learning, and resilience.

Parks across Saint Paul

Recreation centers citywide

Acres of parkland

Of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park

What We Do

The Equal Play Initiative increases access to high-quality play spaces and programs in neighborhoods where the need is greatest. Together with partners like you, we:

Build new playgrounds, sport courts, and athletic fields
Support accessible programs that get kids outdoors and into nature
Introduce young people to STEM learning, job skills, swimming, arts, and outdoor adventures

All of our work is grounded in three core principles:

Kid-designed – shaped by the voices and creativity of young people
Community-led – guided by neighborhood needs and priorities
Culturally relevant – reflecting the identities, experiences, and strengths of the communities we serve

How You Can Play

Your gift is flexible and can support what matters most to you, including:

Playgrounds
Courts and fields
Programs for STEM, outdoor adventures, swimming, and the arts
Specific neighborhoods or locations

Choose your level

Both one-time and multi-year gifts make a lasting impact. Recognition on signage or structures is provided for up to 10 years.

$25,000+ – Premier recognition & volunteer event
$10,000 – Lead recognition & volunteer event
$5,000 – Recognition & volunteer participation
$2,500 – Website and print recognition

Make A Difference

Engage your audience

Equal Play partnerships offer hands-on ways to involve your team, customers, or stakeholders, including:

Playground design days and build days
Field installation days or planting events
Coaching, mentorship, and individual volunteer opportunities
Program support or special events at the site