Public Affairs graduate students in the School of Planning & Public Affairs will partner with the City of Bondurant, Iowa to support the creation of a "Friends of the Parks" nonprofit organization. 

As Bondurant continues to grow and invest in its parks and recreation system, city leaders recognize the value of a community-based nonprofit that can deepen resident engagement, increase volunteerism, and expand fundraising opportunities to enhance and sustain local parks, trails, and recreational programming.

Students will play a central role in researching, planning, and supporting the initial formation of the nonprofit, working in close collaboration with city staff, community members, and potential stakeholders. The project will focus on developing a clear mission and organizational structure, identifying legal and regulatory steps for nonprofit incorporation, outlining fundraising and outreach strategies, and establishing a framework for long-term governance and community involvement.

Key project components will include:

• Research on best practices from existing "Friends of the Parks" organizations in similar communities
• Guidance on the legal process for nonprofit incorporation
• Stakeholder engagement with city officials, parks staff, and residents to define the mission, vision, and scope of the organization
• Development of foundational documents such as articles of incorporation and bylaws
• Recommendations for board composition, volunteer recruitment, and partnership development
• Assistant with the development of a strategic plan

Deliverables will include a nonprofit formation guide tailored to Bondurant’s context, draft organizational documents, and a presentation of the proposed structure and strategy to city leadership and community stakeholders.

This project gives students practical experience in nonprofit development, civic engagement, and public-private collaboration—while helping the City of Bondurant build a sustainable and inclusive model to support its parks and recreation system for years to come.