USWNT Visits Decatur Recreation Center

April 5, 2024 by Leave a comment

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.”

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Oakhurst Indoor Pool Temporarily Closing

March 28, 2024 by Leave a comment

Please be advised that the Oakhurst indoor pool will be closed from April 1-17.

During this period, we are in the process of transitioning contractors to manage the pool’s day-to-day operations. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and sincerely appreciate your understanding. We are committed to providing you with the best possible service, and we look forward to welcoming you back to the pool on April 18.

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Ebster Park Project

March 11, 2024 by Leave a comment

Join us for a community engagement session on March 19th from 6-8 pm at Ebster Recreation Center. We’ll be meeting downstairs in the multipurpose room. The City of Decatur was awarded a $2 million grant from Governor Kemp’s office to reimagine Ebster Park, a vital space in the heart of the community. During the COVID pandemic, Ebster Park became a central gathering space for Decatur community members.

The proposed project aims to address inadequate access to the park, lack of appropriate lighting and shade, the availability of restrooms, and provide other essential amenities. The improvements include upgrading the accessibility ramp, adding a restroom facility, renovating the basketball court and pavilion, and considering new features like a skate park or an “all wheels” area.

This is the first community engagement session, and we want your input to shape the future of Ebster Park. Join us and ensure your voice is heard regarding desired amenities, contributing to the creation of a safe and welcoming community park for everyone. We look forward to seeing you there!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Ebster Recreation Center, Teens Tagged with

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.: A Day of Reflection, Service, and Community Impact

January 12, 2024 by Leave a comment

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 15, 2024, the Decatur Parks and Recreation Department will be closed, resuming regular hours on Tuesday, January 16. This significant federal holiday, commonly known as MLK Day, commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a tireless advocate for racial equality, working classes, and the oppressed worldwide.

Dr. King’s impact is felt not only in history but also in preserved sites across the nation, including national parks and local communities that played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. In recognition of his birthday, entrance fees to national parks will be waived on January 15, making it the first fee-free day of the year. Additionally, MLK Day serves as a day of service, with thousands of volunteers participating in projects nationwide, including activities at national parks.

Locally, the City of Decatur is actively involved in the MLK, Jr. Service Project, a community-driven initiative aiming to support long-time residents and senior homeowners. The project assists in maintaining and repairing homes, allowing these individuals to continue living comfortably. City of Decatur homeowners who are at least 62 years old and meet specific criteria, including fixed or lower income, may qualify for assistance.

Since 2003, dedicated volunteers have contributed to the MLK, Jr. Service Project, installing handicap ramps, weatherizing homes, replacing rotten wood, and collaborating with professionals for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work. Decatur residents interested in participating can pre-register to volunteer, or simply show up at The Solarium in Oakhurst during the designated shift times: Saturday 9-1, Saturday 1-5, Sunday 1-5, Monday 9-1, and Monday 1-5. Volunteers are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before their shift begins.

Participating in the MLK, Jr. Service Project or visiting a local park on this day of service offers a unique opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and the ongoing pursuit of civil rights in America. Let’s join hands in making a positive impact on our community and fostering the spirit of unity and service that Dr. King advocated throughout his life.

For more information and to register for the MLK, Jr. Service Project, visit mlkserviceproject.com.

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Holiday Break

December 22, 2023 by Leave a comment

As the holiday season approaches, our recreation centers are gearing up for a touch of renovation! From December 22nd to January 1st, we’ll be closed for a short break to give our gym floors a shiny new look and ensure top-notch building maintenance. Stay tuned for a refreshed space and get ready to dive into the new year with us! Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season filled with warmth and happiness.

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with

Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun: The Summer Camp Playbook Is Here!

December 8, 2023 by Leave a comment

Are you ready for a summer filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories? The wait is over! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Summer Camp Playbook—an exclusive guide to all the incredible camps lined up for next summer.

What’s Inside?
The Summer Camp Playbook is your ticket to exploring a world of fun and excitement. Dive into a comprehensive collection of camps designed to spark joy and learning for campers of all ages. From outdoor explorations to creative workshops and sports galore, there’s something for everyone!

When to Register?
Mark your calendars for January 6, 2024, at 9 a.m.! That’s when camp registration kicks off, and trust us, these camps fill up faster than a splash in the pool on a hot day. So, set those alarms and get ready to secure your spot in the camps you love.

Helpful Resources to Get You Started
To make your camp registration a breeze, we’ve curated essential documents to guide you through the process. Our ‘How to Register’ guide ensures a seamless registration experience, while our Camp Planning Worksheet assists in planning your ultimate summer lineup.

Where to Find It?
Ready to start planning? Head over to our website and find the Summer Camp Playbook.

Why Early Planning Matters?
Early birds catch the worm, or in this case, the coveted camp slots! Planning early ensures you don’t miss out on the camps of your choice. Don’t let the summer fun slip away—take charge and secure your spot!

Summer awaits, and we can’t wait to embark on this thrilling adventure with you. Start exploring our Summer Camp Playbook now and get ready for a summer full of laughter, friendships, and unforgettable experiences!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with , , ,

Decatur Achieves UNICEF’s Child Friendly Cities Initiative Status: A Significant Milestone

December 6, 2023 by Leave a comment

The City of Decatur is proud to announce a remarkable accomplishment – the attainment of Candidate City status through UNICEF’s esteemed Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI). This marks a pivotal step forward for Decatur, signaling its commitment to prioritize the well-being and voices of its young community members.

On December 1st, the city celebrated the official launch of its Local Action Plan for Youth, a monumental stride toward the coveted recognition as a Child Friendly City. This comprehensive plan, crafted in collaboration with Decatur’s Teen Leadership Team, comprised of 30 high school students, delineates five fundamental priorities. These priorities focus on amplifying youth perspectives and enhancing child welfare within Decatur.

Mayor Patti Garrett expressed her enthusiasm about this achievement, stating, “Decatur’s achievement of Candidate City status with UNICEF USA’s Child Friendly Cities Initiative is evidence of the progress we are making to shift how we engage our young people.”

The plan, approved by the Decatur City Commission on June 5, 2023, was developed through the CFCI Framework for Action in partnership with prominent community entities like City Schools of Decatur, Decatur Education Foundation, and Decatur Housing Authority. It identifies key priorities encompassing environmental consciousness, equity, trust with law enforcement, public space improvement, and accessibility to mental health resources for children and teens.

UNICEF’s Child Friendly Cities Initiative, established in 1996, operates on a child rights-based framework, striving to create safer, just, equitable, inclusive, and child-responsive cities globally. Commending Decatur’s commitment to this framework, UNICEF USA acknowledges the city’s dedication to fostering a better community for its children.

In alignment with the pursuit of Child Friendly City status, Decatur officials and community leaders conduct a comprehensive situation analysis of child well-being, driving the implementation of action plans that prioritize the best interests of children and youth within local policies.

To learn more or share your ideas, reach out to childfriendlydecatur@gmail.com. Additional information about the Child Friendly Cities Initiative in the United States can be found at http://www.unicefusa.org/mission/usa/childfriendlycities.

About UNICEF USA:
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) operates in over 190 countries and territories, striving for a fairer world for every child. UNICEF USA collaborates with the American public to support vulnerable children worldwide, aiming for a world that upholds the rights of all children. Explore more at http://www.unicefusa.org.

Filed under CFCI, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with , ,

Launch of the UNICEF CFCI Local Action Plan for Youth in Decatur!

November 15, 2023 by Leave a comment

The City of Decatur is thrilled to share some exciting news as part of the Decatur Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI). We are officially launching the CFCI Local Action Plan for Youth, becoming an official UNICEF CFCI Candidate City!

To celebrate this milestone, the City of Decatur invites you to join us for a special event in collaboration with the Decatur Youth Council-sponsored Screen on the Square on December 1st at 6:30 p.m. UNICEF USA representatives will be present to share in this celebration.

Don’t miss out on the festivities! 

6:00 p.m.: Tunes by DJ K-KAT
Experience the beats of a talented youth DJ as we set the stage for an evening of celebration.

6:30 p.m.: Child Friendly Cities Initiative Local Action Plan Launch
Celebrate with the City of Decatur as we become a UNICEF CFCI Candidate City! Hear from speakers, including members of the CFCI Teen Leadership Team, City of Decatur’s Mayor Garrett, Tracy Nájera, VP of US Programs for UNICEF USA, as we officially launch the CFCI Local Action Plan.

7:00 p.m.: Screen on the Square: Happy Feet
Enjoy a special screening of Happy Feet, sponsored by the Decatur Youth Council. Bring your friends and family for a night of joy and entertainment!

A Child Friendly City prioritizes the well-being and development of its children and youth by ensuring their rights are protected and promoted. Decatur is actively engaged in the Child Friendly Cities Initiative, being one of the first seven cities in the U.S. to sign a memorandum of understanding with UNICEF for this transformative journey.

The CFCI project involves a multi-year commitment to actively involve community members, especially children and youth, in identifying priorities and taking action in key areas: Safety and Inclusion, Children’s Participation, Equitable Social Services, Safe Living Environments, and Play and Leisure.

In its first year, the CFCI Teen Leadership Team identified five priorities that will make a significant impact on the lives of young residents in Decatur. These include enhancing trust with law enforcement, promoting an equitable and inclusive city, improving access to and awareness of mental health services, fostering an environmentally conscious community, and enhancing public spaces for all.

On June 5, 2023, the City of Decatur’s City Commission formally adopted the CFCI Local Action Plan for Youth, showcasing our commitment to our younger generation.

Decatur is leading the way towards a brighter and more child-friendly future, proving that a united community’s efforts can bring about positive change and make a lasting impact on the lives of its youngest members.

We look forward to sharing this momentous occasion with you and the entire Decatur community. Your presence will make this celebration even more special.

See you on December 1st!

Filed under CFCI, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Teens Tagged with

Get Ready for Spooktacular Halloween Fun with Decatur Parks and Recreation! 🎃👻

October 18, 2023 by Leave a comment

It’s that magical time of the year, and Decatur Parks and Recreation has a lineup of Halloween events that will make your spooky season memorable. 🕷️🌙

Parent’s Night Out – Halloween Edition 🌟
📅 Friday, October 27, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
📍 Oakhurst Recreation Center
👻 Kids ages 5-12 welcome!
🎃 Residents – $35 per child, $10 each additional sibling (register using link)
👻 Non-Residents – $45 per child, $10 each additional sibling

Join us for a night of spooky fun! Wear your Halloween best and enjoy Trunk or Treat festivities in the parking lot. Let the little ghouls and goblins revel in a night of games, treats, and more.

Halloween Jam 🎸
📅 Friday, October 27, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
📍 Ebster Recreation Center
👻 3rd, 4th and 5th grade dance, costumes encouraged! (register using link)
🎃 Brace yourself for a night of thrilling games, exciting activities, delicious food, and drinks. Embrace the Halloween spirit with bone-rattling tricks and spooktacular surprises!

Family Bike Ride – Halloween Edition 🚴‍♂️
📅 Saturday, October 28, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
📍 Starting and Ending at DRC
👻 Bike through the neighborhood and witness Halloween decorations come to life. A delightful family adventure awaits! Ends just in time to see Coco on the Square.

Movie on the Square – Coco 🍿
📅 Saturday, October 28, 7 p.m.
📍 Decatur Square
👻 FREE Popcorn (while supplies last)
🎃 Dress up in your spookiest costumes and join us for a frightfully good time. Visit nearby shops for candy treats and immerse yourself in the fantastic community atmosphere.

Don’t miss out on the spooktacular fun! Mark your calendars, grab your costumes, and join us for a Halloween celebration that promises thrills and chills for the whole family. Let the spooky season begin! 🎉👻

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with , ,

Art Walks in Decatur!

September 25, 2023 by Leave a comment

Downtown Decatur has always been a vibrant hub, brimming with creativity and culture. Among the many facets that make this community so unique, public art stands tall as a testament to the city’s commitment to artistic expression. Have you ever strolled through these charming streets and wondered about the stories behind the sculptures, murals, and installations? Or perhaps you’ve missed some of these artistic gems tucked away in corners waiting to be discovered.

If you share our curiosity or want to explore Decatur in a new light, we invite you to join us on Sunday, October 1st and 8th at 2 p.m. for a captivating journey through the city’s public art landscape. These guided walking tours promise not only to reveal the narratives behind the art but also to unveil hidden treasures you may have missed.

On October 1, we will cover the east side of downtown Decatur and on October 8, we will cover the west side of downtown Decatur. Co-sponsored by the Decatur Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee, these walks will be led by Angie Macon of the Decatur Arts Alliance. Meet at Community Bandstand for these enjoyable and informative FREE walking tours. 

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , ,

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