Parks, People, & Philanthropy: What Every Park Leader Should Know

2025-12-10

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In today's episode, Donald sits on the tailgate with Kevin Korenthal, Executive Director of the National Association of Park Foundations, to explore how park professionals and their supporting foundations can work together more effectively, more confidently, and with clearer expectations. Kevin brings decades of nonprofit leadership and association experience to NAPF, and he shares practical guidance on building stronger relationships between park agencies and the foundations that support them. ⭐ In This Episode We discuss: What Park Foundations Actually Do

In today's episode, Donald sits on the tailgate with Kevin Korenthal, Executive Director of the National Association of Park Foundations, to explore how park professionals and their supporting foundations can work together more effectively, more confidently, and with clearer expectations.

Kevin brings decades of nonprofit leadership and association experience to NAPF, and he shares practical guidance on building stronger relationships between park agencies and the foundations that support them.

⭐ In This Episode

We discuss:

What Park Foundations Actually Do
Beyond fundraising — their role in advocacy, community engagement, volunteerism, and long-term resource development.
Why Some Partnerships Thrive (and Why Others Struggle)
Kevin explains common pitfalls between parks and foundations and how communication, clarity, and expectations can make or break the relationship.
How Park Professionals Can Better Support Their Foundations
Simple actions staff can take that dramatically increase trust and effectiveness.
Board Development & Governance Tips
Recruiting the right volunteers, setting expectations, and avoiding the "warm body on a board" trap.
How to Communicate Needs Without Making "The Big Ask" Every Time
Tools and practices for creating open, ongoing dialogue.
What Foundations Wish Park Managers Understood
Kevin offers honest, actionable insights that managers can implement right away.
Training, Mentorship, and the Importance of a Shared Mission
How park professionals can build a stronger culture of stewardship around their foundation.

🎙️ About Kevin Korenthal

Kevin Korenthal, CAE, is the Executive Director of the National Association of Park Foundations, an organization dedicated to strengthening parks through strong, ethical, and effective supporting foundations. He brings deep expertise in nonprofit management, board development, leadership training, and fostering healthy partnerships between agencies and their philanthropic arms. Learn more at www.the-napf.org.

🌄 Why This Episode Matters

Park Foundations are powerful multipliers — but only when the park and the foundation operate as partners, not separate planets. This episode equips park professionals with the understanding and tools they need to: