San Jose Parks Foundation

San Jose Parks Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, is the direct result of thoughtful planning by San Jose's Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS), which led to some serious research into the idea.

A group was established by PRNS to work through the idea with some community leaders who were knowledgeable about the parks system. James P. Reber was engaged to move the process from study to reality.The wonderfully-illuminated fountain in Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park in downtown San Jose is one of San Jose's most popular attractions.

Mr. Reber formed a new committee with roots in the previous group, but including some new people with different voices and perspectives and the Vision, Mission, and Goals were revised and established.

Mr. Reber then began to do the planning, complete the legal incorporation, and recruit the inaugural board members for the San Jose Parks Foundation. 

Historical Background of the Foundation

In 2000, the residents of San José demonstrated their commitment to parks and recreation with a $228 million bond to build and improve tot lots, community centers, sports fields, and trails. Within the coming year these projects will be complete and the bond funding is coming to an end.

There is much work remaining to be done to support the dynamic parks system that residents envisioned in 2000. However, like most other municipalities; San José faces budget shortfalls and reduced revenue. 

Our residents understand that to build up a world class parks system requires more than the basic funding the City can provide. 

Continued community discussions on Public Private Partnerships have shown that San José residents are clamoring for ways to support the Parks and Recreation mission through financial resources, volunteerism, and collaborations.  What’s missing is a citywide non-profit Foundation to align their energies and enthusiasm.

Responding to this groundswell of community support, the City of San José has committed seed funding for the core operational resources to develop an independent non-profit San José Parks Foundation.

The Foundation will take on the challenge of building a permanent charitable endowment that will provide income in perpetuity for San José Parks.

Who We Are

Board of Trustees

San Jose Parks Foundation's Founding Board of Trustees represent a variety of community perspectives and interests.They all share a love for our parks. They are:        

• Dan Pulcrano   CEO                                  Metro Newspapers

• Helen Chapman (VP-Programs)            
  Research Specialist               San Jose Unified School District

• Eric Heckman (Treasurer)      Finacial Pkanner                HFIS, Inc.
  

• Ray Turner (Secretary) Retired                                             San Jose

• Sylvia Lowe Director                                       Institute of Sino-American Studies

• John Leyba (VP Development) Finance Manager                             Pacific Gas & Electric Company

Executive Director

The Founding Executive Director has brought the project from discussions into a working nonprofit organization.

James P. Reber

Advisory Boards

The Community Advisory Board transitioned from the Foundation Steering Committee and serves to assist with the needs of the newly-formed foundation, advising, getting the word out, and helping to develop resources. Watch this space for future listings of Advisory Board members.