Frequently Asked Questions

Children planting native plants

Q: What is a Partnership?
Q: Why should one become a partner with Parks?
Q: What are the rules and steps to becoming a partner with Parks?
Q: Who do I contact for more info about partnerships with Parks?
Q: What are the opportunities for partnerships with Parks?
Q: Is there an application fee to submit my interest in becoming a partner?
Q: How many partners currently engage in a partnership with Parks?
Q: How long is a typical partnership with Parks?
Q: Does partnering with Parks require a financial commitment?
Q: What kinds of partnerships do you allow with Parks?

What is a Partnership?

As defined in Parks’ 2009-2013 Strategic Action Plan, a partnership is a working relationship with another organization that has compatible values and goals and that results in mutual benefits. It may or may not be subject to a formal written agreement. The partnership may be formed around a single activity or event, or it may be long-term and multi-faceted.

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Why should I become a partner with Parks?

Seattle Parks and Recreation owns more than 6,200 acres of park land, including 430 parks, 185 athletic fields, 4 golf courses, 8 indoor and 2 outdoor pools, 151 outdoor tennis courts, an indoor tennis facility (Amy Yee), 2 museums, 6 Performing and Visual Arts Facilities, 4 environmental learning centers, and 26 community centers.

Our vision is, "Creating community through people, parks, and programs". A key goal of our 2009-2013 Strategic Action Plan is Goal #6 (5), which directs department staff to "identify opportunities to partner with organizations that can more effectively provide services by leveraging skills and resources." With that in mind, we believe we have the capital assets and programming that are attractive to interested parties who want to pursue opportunities to develop and build partnerships that will benefit them and the people of Seattle.

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What are the rules and steps to becoming a partner with Parks?

We have developed a process called the Expression of Interest from which you can review the rules and parameters for entering a partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation. We want you to tell us what your specific interest is, your idea(s) for partnering and how that aligns with our core vision and Strategic Action Plan. If you’re interested in partnering with Parks, please complete the Expression of Interest form.

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Whom do I contact for more info about partnerships with Parks?

You can contact Charles Ng, Manager of Contracts, Grants, and Concessions, to discuss your interest and get more information about partnerships at charles.ng@seattle.gov or 206-684-8001.

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What are the opportunities for partnerships with Parks?

Please see our priorities and the Expression of Interest to see what kinds of partnerships we are seeking.

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Is there an application fee or cost to submit my interest in becoming a partner with Parks?

There is no application fee related to showing your interest.

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How many partners currently engage in a partnership with Parks?

We have an active count of more than 200 partners that are under contractual relationships with Seattle Parks and Recreation. For a sample listing please see Partnership Examples and Successful Partnerships.

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How long is a typical partnership with Parks?

It depends on what is negotiated between the parties. Our typical long term contracts are five years with an option for another five years. However, this can be longer based on negotiations.

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Does partnering with Parks require a financial commitment?

No. Some of our partnerships are non-financial and require only an exchange of services and/or facility usage. This is negotiable based on the interests of both parties.

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What kinds of partnerships do you allow with Parks?

Please see Types of Partnerships.

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