Austin Parks Foundation Seeks Little Hummingbird Society Members

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Calling all the "little hummingbirds" out there (that means you, kids): The Austin Parks Foundation‘s Little Hummingbird Society is kicking off 2019 with an upcoming volunteer project at Metz Neighborhood Park designed for children.

The Little Hummingbird Society aims to bridge the gap between kids and city parks in fostering a connection with next generation of park lovers. The program yields education on giving back to the Austin community while stressing the importance of parks, trails and green spaces. In participating, children can have fun with their parents while promoting a healthy lifestyle, volunteerism and advocacy for Austin’s youngest park-goers.

To that end, officials have scheduled a volunteer project on Feb. 9 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. open to the public. Children and their parents are especially encouraged to sign up for memberships, which feature such benefits as exclusive merchandise, volunteer events, and seasonal activity booklets. In addition to building a sense of community through Little Hummingbird activities, kids will also reap the physical and mental health benefits of getting out into the parks, officials noted.

LHS membership is $10 per month for the first child, and $5 per month for each additional child enrolled. Membership fees directly support the work APF conducts to improve and enhance Austin’s 300-plus parks, and provide access to great parks for every Austin resident, according to officials.

Little Hummingbird Society member at Zilker Park, photo courtesy Austin Parks Foundation

Here's a recap:

• WHAT: Little Hummingbird Society offers children a great way to learn about giving back to the Austin community and the importance of parks, trails and green spaces. Parents can have fun with their kids while promoting a healthy lifestyle, volunteerism and advocacy for Austin’s youngest park-goers.

This project in particular will revolve around trees and mulching. Trees contribute greatly to the overall enjoyment of a park but cold winters and hot summers are hard on them. Mulching is a great way to help protect tree's root system and provide it with rich nutrients! Austin Parks Foundation will provide snacks, sunscreen, gloves and tools. Snack, water and play breaks will be built into the day. Water bottles and closed toed shoes are encouraged.

For more information and to register, visit: https://austinparks.givepulse.com/event/97945-LITTLE-HUMMINGBIRD-SOCIETY-Tree-Love-at-Metz-Neighborhood-Park%21

• WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 9 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• WHERE: Metz Neighborhood Park, 2407 Canterbury St, Austin, TX 78702.

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>>> Photos courtesy of Austin Parks Foundation, used with permission