On Thursday, July 30, more than 100 volunteers from Coca-Cola Consolidated, NASCAR, Charlotte Motor Speedway, and the community gathered at Suffletown Park to build a new racecar-themed playground.

Partners for Parks was honored to participate in this project, which adds a new recreation option for families in Northwest Charlotte. Our organization served as the financial liaison between Coca-Cola Consolidated, which funded the build, and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. Cunningham Recreation, PlayCore, and GameTime were instrumental in making the build and event a success. 

 

The site was chosen because of Shuffletown’s history as a dragway and Coca-Cola Consolidated’s ties to the Coca-Cola 600, which is held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. 

“Investing in play provides children and families with a safe, vibrant outdoor space to connect, build friendships, and seek adventure,” reads a placard at the site. 

 

This is a shining example of Partners for Parks’ mission in action, serving as a bridge between corporate and individual donors and local park and recreation departments, helping to facilitate public-private relationships that strengthen parks, greenways, open space, active play, and recreational programs.

“It’s a joy and delight to see this playground come to life thanks to so much collaboration between entities and volunteer contributions of their time and energy,” says Partners for Parks Executive Director Lauren Sawyers. “

Thanks for reading!

As a nonprofit, Partners for Parks depends on donor support to advocate for, enhance, and expand access to parks, greenways, nature preserves, open spaces, and recreation opportunities. Is a safe, healthy, equitable, and connected community important to you? Join us by making a donation!

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PO Box 32365
Charlotte, NC 28232

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Partners for Parks is a volunteer-driven nonprofit supported by a dedicated Executive Director and engaged Board of Directors. Our members play an active role on the Executive Board and committees, helping to advocate for, fund, and advance projects that strengthen and grow our park system. There are many ways to get involved. Some opportunities are ongoing, while others are single-day events. Whether you have a specific skill to share or simply want to lend a hand, we would love to find the right fit for you.

Interested in volunteering? Reach out to us at info@partnersforparks.org to get started.