Learn more about the WPSAC

Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy

• 2013–2014 | Parent-Led Origins Through a Youth Golf Program

• The organization originated with parents and volunteers supporting a county-operated youth golf program located within Weequahic Park.

• While assisting with youth participation, parents identified a lack of advocacy, infrastructure support, and coordinated oversight affecting recreational programming and park conditions.

• These observations highlighted broader issues impacting park safety, maintenance, and youth access beyond the golf course itself.

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• 2014 | Recreation Services & Advocacy Begin

• Beginning in 2014, the organization commenced continuous performance of recreational services within Weequahic Park, supporting youth sports, organized activities, and community engagement.

• As part of its service role, the organization began advocating for improved park conditions, safe play areas, and equitable access to recreational spaces.

• First Restoration Project | Judge Booker Paddleball Court

• The group’s first organized restoration effort focused on the Judge Booker Paddleball Court, an underutilized and deteriorating recreational space.

• The site was prioritized due to safety concerns and its importance to community recreation.

• During this period, Essex County had contracted work occurring in the area, while the organization supported restoration through:

• Community coordination and cleanup

• Youth engagement and stewardship

• Advocacy for safe public access and reactivation of the space

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• 2015–2021 | Expansion of Recreational Services & Stewardship

• Continued delivery of park-based recreational services, youth sports, and community events.

• Increased involvement in:

  • Park safety advocacy

  • Volunteer-led cleanups and beautification

  • Youth mentorship and leadership development

• Ongoing documentation of volunteer hours and sweat-equity contributions.

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2022 | Formal Conservancy Structure

• To protect its long-standing work and provide organizational accountability, the group formalized as the Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy.

• The conservancy model strengthened the organization’s ability to:

  • Deliver recreational services

  • Coordinate volunteers

  • Engage public agencies

  • Advocate for equitable park investment

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2023–Present | Sustained Service & Mission Continuity

• Continued performance of recreational services within Weequahic Park.

• Expansion of environmental stewardship, landscaping instruction, and workforce readiness initiatives.

• Commitment to long-term sustainability independent of reimbursement-based funding models.

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 About Us

The Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing

recreational services, youth sports, and park stewardship within Weequahic Park.

The organization was formed by parents and volunteers who were actively supporting a youth golf program

operating in the park and recognized a growing need for advocacy, accountability, and improved park conditions.

While engaged in youth recreation, these families observed the decline of surrounding recreational spaces and the impact it had on safe play and community use.

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Since 2014, the organization has continuously performed recreational services within Weequahic Park, supporting organized sports, youth activities, and community engagement while advocating for safe, accessible, and well-maintained public spaces.

The group’s first restoration initiative focused on the Judge Booker Paddleball Court, where community members worked to restore safe use and reactivation of the space alongside county-contracted activity occurring in the area. This effort marked the beginning of a broader commitment to park stewardship, youth engagement, and civic advocacy.

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To sustain and protect this work, the organization formally established the Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy, strengthening governance, documentation, and long-term planning. Guided by the principle “Safe Parks, Safe Neighborhoods, Safe Streets = Safe Play,” the Conservancy continues to invest in youth, community, and the future of Weequahic Park.