Rooted AP

From small-scale respite activities to large-scale outdoor events, our programming, running through May to November, activates Anacostia Park as a meaningful convening point for all visitors. Years of engaging with local residents in an intentional way have distilled down to our programming agenda, which includes:  

Community Fishing

Every Saturday, Friends Corps member Bruce Holmes leads fishing activities along the Anacostia River for children and adults alike. As a community historian with a wealth of knowledge about the Park, Mr. Holmes uses these fishing sessions as an opportunity to spread knowledge about both the ecological and human histories of the Park and its surrounding areas.

Park Care days

Also running every Saturday, our Park Care Days are an opportunity for community members to contribute to Park beautification and restoration efforts, through activities including invasive species removals and trash cleanup. Volunteers are often accompanied by members of the National Park Service, allowing space for environmental education and community building.

Anacostia Park Late Skates

Join us for one of the most vibrant community events in Anacostia Park each year– Late Skate.

Enjoy boat rides from Anacostia Watershed Society, grilling and chilling, tabling from community partners such as APACC and Martha’s Table, music from DJ Graylin and the LinkUp DC, concerts from the likes of EU Sugar Bear, and free skate rentals.

Our respite activities target both mental and physical wellness and aim to reach a variety of underserved groups. Current programming includes:

  • Boat rides and fishing for returning citizens, seniors, teachers and youth

  • Respite days for seniors that include activities ranging from craft activities to board games to dancing, in partnership with Iona Senior Services, the Fabulous Hand Dancers of DC, and the East River Family Strengthening Collaborative

  • Respite summits for returning citizens in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Returning Citizens (MORCA) and the National Reentry Network

Interested in hosting or participating in respite program? Connect with us here.

Respite Programming

Residencies

Residents are folks from the community who are paid a stipend to facilitate programming in the Park.

Everyone has a special passion, and this program turns the Park into a platform for residents to share those passions with visitors. From June-October, residents lead a wide array of programming—from health & wellness seminars to group drumming classes.

Unfortunately, we are not accepting new residency applications at this time. We encourage you to check back with us next spring. Thank you for your interest!