Congratulations to Friendship Park District of Jefferson County!
Congratulations to Friendship Park District of Jefferson County on being awarded the 2025 OPRA Foundation Changing Lives Grant to support the development of an Adaptive Fishing Pier at Friendship Lake.
This impactful project will expand access to outdoor recreation for individuals with mobility challenges, including wheelchair users, older adults, and families with young children. The ADA-accessible fishing pier will provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming way for visitors of all abilities to enjoy fishing, connect with nature, and engage with their community.
Located within the 1,320-acre Friendship Park, the adaptive pier addresses a critical gap in accessible recreation in Jefferson County. Designed with sustainability and long-term use in mind, the project reflects Friendship Park District’s strong commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and enhancing quality of life through parks and natural resources. Installation is anticipated for spring 2026.
The OPRA Foundation is proud to support projects like this that truly change lives by creating meaningful, inclusive experiences in parks and communities across Ohio.
Changing Lives Grant
Through the OPRA Changing Lives Grant Program, the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Foundation has committed to funding a grant of up to $20,000 matching grant to one OPRA member agency that expands their program offerings to make parks and recreation services available to new or expanded audiences. Designed for agencies that need help pushing critical projects across the finish line, the grant seeks to assist agencies changing the lives of the people who they serve.
The program is specifically seeking projects that positively impact their community by making park spaces and programs more accessible. Examples of projects include playground equipment that allows better access to those with physical or mental disabilities; programs or projects that provide access to the public that may not be able to participate due to financial barriers; programs or projects providing sensory-friendly education opportunities; and programs or projects specifically targeted toward underserved populations or people living on the margins of society.
The application is currently closed. Check back for more information.