County Park Friends, the nonprofit partner of Santa Cruz County Parks, has launched its All Kids Play 2025 campaign with an ambitious goal to raise $100,000 by the end of December. The campaign supports scholarships and park improvements that make it possible for local youth to enjoy healthy, active, and enriching experiences outdoors.
Every child in Santa Cruz County deserves the chance to learn to swim, join a sports camp, or explore nature through park programs — but many families cannot afford the fees. Through All Kids Play scholarships, County Park Friends ensures that cost is never a barrier to participation.
Last year, community donations helped connect 1,111 youth to County Parks programs and fund 383 full scholarships for activities such as swim lessons, pool guards, sports camps and nature programs. Demand continues to grow, with applications exceeding available funding each year.
County Parks Friends efforts were recently highlighted in Capitola, where the group has partnered with the city to modernize Treasure Cove playground at Jade Street Park and make it accessible to more children. Treasure Cove will feature a marine and shoreline theme with specialized equipment, including a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, cozy domes, sensory play structures and climbing zones, ensuring children of all ages and abilities can play together side by side.
An 18-month capital campaign led by County Park Friends raised more than $1 million in private donations. Contributions came from individual community members, service organizations, foundations and local businesses through a wide variety of creative fundraisers.
“Over 1,500 donors contributed to Treasure Cove. Their generosity has brought us to this moment,” said lead community fundraising volunteer Dan Haifley at a groundbreaking event for the project held in October.
The City of Capitola provided $475,000 in initial funding for outreach and design; additional funding came from a $3.2 million Community Development Block Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“What I’ve realized is that when you have playgrounds that are inclusive, it means a lot to the parents and a lot to the children who then can be a part of something that is foundational for what we stand for,” said Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.). “It gives you that sense of belonging.”
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To contribute or learn more, visit countyparkfriends.org. Every dollar raised stays right here in Santa Cruz County, building stronger kids, families, and communities through recreation, confidence, and connection.