Park Conversations | Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation

Welcome to Park Conversations

Park Conversations is a biannual magazine that spotlights the conversations happening throughout Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. We want our members, program participants, and park users to be seen and heard, and Park Conversations does just that.

The impact of parks and recreation can truly be transformative! Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is fortunate to offer something for everyone. We encourage you to explore the science of nature, engage in our adaptive programs, connect with others on the playground, or find a better you through fitness and wellness.

Keep the conversation going! Share your own story.

This year we saw our parks rediscovered. When there were few places to venture, people turned to our spaces. Park visitation was higher in Indiana than in our neighboring states, which I believe is a testament to the incredible opportunities available to Hoosiers — especially here in Carmel and Clay Township.

Thanks to our team’s out-of-the-box thinking, we continue to support our community. When the Monon Community Center’s doors closed, we took our fitness virtual. When programs canceled, we created educational videos. When playgrounds closed, we encouraged park users to explore parks in new ways.

In response to this year’s challenges, we continue to make the health, wellness and recreation resources available to our community a priority.

We hope you feel as supported as ever whether you’re joining us as part of your fitness journey, attending a recreation program, or out enjoying our parks. Within the pages of this edition, we share stories of nimble and creative thinking community members who push forward through these challenging times. We hope as you read these stories you find yourself inspired and hopeful.

Regards,

Michael W. Klitzing, CPRE
Director of Parks and Recreation

Stories We’re Helping Tell

Reimagining Meadowlark Park

On April 1, Meadowlark Park will close as it undergoes construction as part of our Reimagining Parks initiative.

Mud Pie Anyone?

Nature programs create lifelong naturalists promoting a love of the great outdoors.

Connecting Community

Virtual fitness classes keep MCC members connected and their fitness on track during COVID-related closure.

Reimagining Carey Grove Park

Beloved Carey Grove Park undergoes renovations and enhancements ensuring memorable outdoor fun.

Inclusion at Every Age

Adaptive programming creates a nurturing and safe environment for continuing skill development.

Protecting Imperiled Pollinators

Native seed collection through Project Wingspan boosts the monarch and rusty patch bumblebee population.

Growth through Community

The Monon Community Center offers amenities and a fitness community to call home.

Teaching Takes a Global Path

Dena Osting has taught all around the globe, but her journey brought her back to where she started — making a difference in her hometown.

Help our Native Habitats

Make a difference in your own backyard with tips from our Natural Resources team about eradicating invasive species!

Reimagining Flowing Well Park

With a national park feel right here in Carmel, people are coming from far and wide to visit for the experience.

The Path to Independence

Over the last decade, Michael + Jessica Sharkey have been on their own path to independence. Adaptive programming at the MCC has helped them along the way.

Growing is Good for You

Take a chance on yourself and see what a difference change can make in your body, mind and spirit.

Growing Up with a Love of Parks

Enjoying the career-advancement ride

Forward Focus: Growing Parks Through Reimagination

The future looks bright for Carmel

CCPR volunteer on invasive species removal day

Engaging with the Park System

Volunteering is a way to connect with nature and future generations

The Student Voice Matters

Empowering students to use their voice leads to happiness, fun and learning

A Walk with Nature

Monica Cannaley has participated in the On the Trail to Fitness program every week since 2014! Learn more about the program and what keeps her coming back for more.

A Journey to Transformation

Jumanah Alsaffar found all the tools she needed for her transformation at the Monon Community Center. Now, this real-life wonder woman is unstoppable.