July is Park and Recreation Month, and South Suburban is celebrating all of the ways our parks, trails, open spaces, recreation facilities and programs help foster a sense of belonging in our community.

South Suburban is dedicated to providing welcoming and inclusive programs and safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connections. Parks, trails and recreation programs boost mental health and community connections, and South Suburban staff work each day to create spaces where you belong:

Active Adults: Did you know South Suburban is one of Colorado’s largest providers of senior programming? We’re experiencing the impacts of a national demographic shift, as more adults ages 55+ visit recreation centers for exercise and camaraderie. Our staff have expanded programming to serve these members of our community, and we even host an annual Active Adult Healthy Living Expo serving 200+ local seniors. Plus, active adults can make friends and get moving in in any of our weekly SilverSneakers classes!

Esports: As one of the only regional esports providers, South Suburban offers a community environment for youth to learn, play and connect in our two state-of-the art esports lounges. Affordable drop-in play rates make it an accessible option for patrons that don’t have access to the equipment or games in their own homes, or those who want to make new friends while playing their favorite games. Plus, the biannual esports showcases draw participants from around the region, with varying expertise and ages. By hosting local in-person events, esports staff are building an inclusive community that may not have otherwise interacted outside of an online space.

Neighborhood Parks & Trails: With more than 121 miles of trails and 92 parks, 98% of South Suburban residents are within a half-mile of recreation opportunities. Staff are dedicated to maintaining, improving and building innovative and accessible recreation opportunities for everyone in our community. We’ve already celebrated new park improvements across the District so far this year, and plans are in the works to renovate more than 20 neighborhood parks in the next five years. Keep up with the latest planning and construction news on Game Plan!

Free and Low-Cost Programming: South Suburban offers more than 600 free and low-cost programs annually, including one of the largest Try Hockey for Free events in the nation. We also partner with Sheridan Inspire to host Family Night events at the Sheridan Recreation Center, free swim days at Harlow Pool, and nature adventures at South Platte Park and the Carson Nature Center. Additionally, admission to the beautiful Hudson Gardens is free to the public 365 days per year.

Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with us by following along on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn, and sharing the ways parks and recreation help you find where you belong.