Why FWP? - Mission - Purpose
WHY FWP?
The words of Margaret Mead (1901-1978), “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has,” are perfect for describing how and why Friends of Woodland Park was founded as an offshoot of the Woodland Heights Civic Association. Founding board members (Becky Houston, Pat Rutledge, Beth Fisher, and Louise Moss) formally incorporated FWP as a non-profit in 2010. Around that time, Woodland Park was being evaluated for potential closure by the city as it was generally run-down and well under-utilized. However, the intrepid “Founding Four” saw the potential for renewing Woodland Park to shine as one of the few remaining natural, intact, riparian spaces in the city — creating an area for nature preservation and enjoyment as well as providing a recreational center for the local community. With strong partnerships with city government and local advocacy groups, FWP continues to work to insure that Woodland Park thrives, so that our community also thrives and our history and natural places endure.
MISSION
The Friends of Woodland Park, Inc. (FWP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to preserving and improving Woodland Park's natural habitat along with its unique historical significance to the City of Houston, and to providing for the enjoyment and education of all who visit.
Purpose AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES
(summarized from bylaws)
To encourage, promote, restore and preserve the natural sanctuary as a passive urban regional recreational area.
To encourage the study and overall appreciation of the place in history that this Houston city park and the surrounding area hold for the residents of Houston, Texas.
To encourage and participate in studies and advise and educate governmental bodies and the public as to legislation/governmental regulations which may affect the enjoyment of the public park and/or greenspace property within and adjoining the Little White Oak Bayou area.
To keep the public informed of organization and park activities, through direct dissemination of information, and public education or information programs and activities.
To undertake, in a lawful and ethical manner, activities in support of the Houston Parks and Recreation Department and other various governmental entities
To solicit and expend funds in support of the above public purposes.
To assist various governmental and non-profit organizations dedicated to the benefit of the public in the acquisition/disposal and development of land and properties and to assist in the determination of the function, design, operation, and maintenance of the recreational facility.
The guiding principles of FWP are those of honesty, integrity, and public purpose in its dealings and activities. All activities of FWP shall be done in an honest, ethical, and lawful manner, and shall be above reproach. FWP is strictly led and run by volunteers who receive no remuneration or specific benefits for their time, talent, or donations.