Purpose: 

Friends of Marion Parks work to promote the use, the development and the enjoyment of parks throughout Marion.

About the Group: 

Organized in 2002, Friends of Marion Parks, a nonprofit organization, has supported the Parks and Recreation Department by purchasing equipment, providing volunteers to assist with events or programs and coordinating park staff recognition.

Meetings: 

The Board of the Friends of Marion Parks meets the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. from April to October.

Scavenger Hunt: 

The Friends of the Marion Parks have done it again! They have put together another scavenger hunt to get you out to explore some of the greatest assets of our community, OUR PARKS! Hope you enjoy your time out in our parks! Friends of Parks Photo Scavenger Hunt 2026

"Take a Seat" Bench Sponsorship Program: 

 Building on the momentum of Central Plaza and The Heart of It All, Friends of the Parks is launching a new initiative to enhance comfort, connection, and accessibility in neighborhood parks.

As playgrounds improve, one simple need stands out: seating. “Take a Seat” is a bench sponsorship program designed to meet that need in a meaningful, lasting way.

Additional Information: 

Since all projects are supported by memberships and donations, a membership drive occurs in early September. New and renewal memberships are welcomed anytime throughout the year. Individual memberships are $10, family memberships are $15, and lifetime memberships are $175. All contributions are tax-deductible. Donations can also be given annually through an IRA Distribution Request.

If you have ideas for projects, are interested in volunteering, or would like to serve on the board, please contact Al Kacere at 319-361-9120 or the Marion Parks and Recreation Department at 319-447-3590 for more information.