Build Together: Creating Parks and Programs for Everyone in Decatur

At Decatur Parks & Recreation, we believe that when we build together, we build stronger. That means ensuring every playground, program, and park is created with everyone in mind—across age, ability, background, and income. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just guiding principles; they are central to how we serve and shape our community.

One powerful example is the Legacy Park Inclusive Playground, designed so that all children, regardless of physical or developmental ability, can play side by side. It is a space where kids can learn, explore, and grow together, while families gather and connect in a welcoming outdoor setting. This project reflects what is possible when a community comes together to invest in inclusion.

But building together goes beyond infrastructure. It is also about access. Not every family in Decatur has the means to afford afterschool care, athletics, or summer camps. That is why we invite you to support the Mary Miller Decatur Youth Fund, which helps remove financial barriers for local families. The fund, managed by the Decatur Education Foundation, ensures that children can participate in after-school programs, summer school, summer camps and other enrichment opportunities, regardless of their financial situation.

To give, mail a check made out to the Decatur Education Foundation with “Decatur Youth Fund” in the memo line to: 500 S. Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30030
Contributions are tax-deductible. For questions, contact Nancy Brune at 404-377-0494 or nancy.brune@decaturga.com.

This Saturday, join us at Community Day at Ebster Field from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as we wrap up Parks & Recreation Month with a celebration of connection, culture, and play. There will be games, music from DJ K-Kat, food trucks, and a family bike ride. It is a free, family-friendly event that reflects what Decatur is all about: showing up for each other and creating space where everyone belongs.

USWNT Visits Decatur Recreation Center

Yesterday was an exciting day at the Decatur Recreation Center! With the SheBelieves Cup 2024 approaching this Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the USWNT is in town and made a special visit to the Global Village Project school. Inside the rec center gym, they presented students with cleats and jerseys. The school is comprised of middle school girls, all refugees, who utilize the Decatur Recreational Center weekly for physical education classes.

These classes are taught by staff from Soccer In the Streets, a local non-profit committed to empowering Atlanta’s youth through soccer training, character development, and employability programs.

Soccer In the Streets firmly believes that “everyone should have the opportunity to play, regardless of who they are or where they live.” Their mission is to “level the playing field for all.”

Saturday starts Family Open Gym at Oakhurst Rec!

Join us for Open Gym at Oakhurst Rec Center! 🏀

Get ready to shoot some hoops and unleash your basketball skills! Starting this Saturday, July 8th.

1️⃣ Family Open Gym:
🗓️ Every Saturday
⏰ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Bring the whole family for a fun-filled basketball experience. It’s a perfect opportunity to bond, stay active, and enjoy quality time together on the court!

2️⃣ Teen Open Gym (13-17):
🗓️ Every other Saturday, starting July 8th
⏰ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Calling all teens aged 13-17! Show off your skills & compete with friends!

3️⃣ Adult Open Gym (18+):
🗓️ Every other Saturday, starting July 15th
⏰ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Attention adults (18+), it’s time to dust off those basketball shoes and join us for a friendly co-ed game.

Oakhurst Recreation Center,
450 East Lake Drive

McKoy Skate Park Public Meeting

Join us for a public meeting Thursday, April 13 from 6:30-7:30pm at McKoy Skate Park. Add your input for the design of the park here: americanrampcompany.com/surveys/decatur-skatepark/

Earn-a-Bike

Free workshop on September 24, 10-2pm at Legacy Park.

Practice bike handling skills and build your bike knowledge!

Learn how to ride smart with drills and practice riding.

Earn a free bike – While supplies last.

For more information contact civilbikes@gmail.com

Baseball Opening Day is Here!

Congrats to the DHS Girls Ultimate Team

Ultimate

Congratulations to Decatur High School Girls Ultimate Team for winning the Treminus Juniors tournament. Many of the players started right here in on the Decatur Active Living Ultimate Team.  It is awesome to see that the DAL program continues to serve as a feeder program to the High School Ultimate team.  

Youth Basketball Dribbles On

Opening weekend of Youth Basketball shoots and scores! Last weekend Decatur Active Living kicked off our Youth Basketball season after a two year hiatus. It was great to hear the gyms filled with the dribbling of basketballs and whistles blown. A huge shout out and thank you to Stacy Green, Athletic Program Supervisor, and her team who ensured the safety of players, staff, and spectators. Can’t wait to see you on the court!

Decatur Active Living’s Holiday Hours

Happy Holidays to all! Decatur Active Living facilities and programs will have a modified schedule until the New Year.

Decatur Recreation Center and Ebster Recreation Center will close on Thursday, December 23 at 2:00 PM through Monday, January 3.

Glenlake Tennis Center will be closed on December 24 and December 25 as well as December 31 and January 1. All other days have normal business hours.

Oakhurst Indoor Pool will have normal business hours except for the following dates:

  • Friday, December 23: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • December 24 and 25: Closed for Christmas
  • Sunday, December 26: 12:00 PM (noon) – 5:00 PM
  • Friday, December 31: 6:00 AM – 2:00 pm
  • January 1: Closed on New Years Day
  • Sunday, January 2: 12:00 PM (noon) – 5:00 PM

If you are in need of immediate assistance, please reach out to our front desk at 404-377-0494.

Mobile Recreation Center hit the target!

Our Mobile Recreation Center hit the bullseye this month. We introduced Archery and saw our next Olympians. It’s a joy to see everyone having fun and being active. Stay tuned to learn when our Mobile Recreation Center will come to your neighborhood.