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Rec and Park touts McLaren Park court resurfacing and grassroots fund that raised nearly $2 million for volunteer park groups
Summary
Commissioners and the general manager highlighted the resurfacing of McLaren Park tennis courts that drew Roger Federer and public fundraising that created the San Francisco Neighborhood and Parks Fund to help groups affected by the Parks Alliance closure.
The Recreation and Park Commission’s Sept. 18 president’s report highlighted recent park events and a grassroots philanthropic response to the Parks Alliance closure.
Commission President Anderson described the resurfacing of tennis courts at McLaren Park under the Laver Cup Community Legacy Project, saying the work was completed with the USTA Foundation and Mercedes‑Benz and drew special guests Roger Federer and Yannick Noah. Anderson said the resurfacing and programmatic funding from the community legacy effort will support youth tennis programming tied to organizations such as Youth Tennis Advantage and the East Palo Alto Tennis and Tutoring Center.
Anderson and General Manager Phil Ginsberg also described a private effort — the San Francisco Neighborhood and Parks Fund — formed after the closure of the Parks Alliance to restore funds to about 80 affected volunteer groups. Anderson said the new 501(c)(3) has quietly raised almost $2 million and that the effort involves community leaders and philanthropic partners. Ginsberg thanked major donors and foundations named in news coverage, including John Pritzker, the Hellman Foundation, Crankstart, the Baker Street Foundation and the Fisher family.
Why it matters: commissioners framed both items as examples of public‑private collaboration that preserve recreational access and volunteer stewardship in the wake of organizational disruption. Anderson emphasized equity goals for investments in parks and youth programming.
Ending: commissioners and managers encouraged the public to visit the renovated courts and thanked volunteers and donors involved in the neighborhood fund.
