Get thee to a rec center!
Have you been to your neighborhood recreation center?
DC has many great playgrounds and recreation centers. While some are overcrowded, more often they are not fully being utilized. These become more lively and vibrant if residents use them more and get to know each other.
Left: Bruce-Monroe Park. Photo by msdeena on Flickr.
Right: Chevy Chase Rec Center. Photo by DC DPR on Flickr.
For many newer residents, rec center buildings can seem mysterious or foreboding. What is this building? And who are these strange people who hang out there?
Just go and strike up a conversation. Start with the staff. Most of them don’t bite, and welcome having new residents show an interest. If you have kids, talk to the other parents; even if they don’t look just the same as you, they have the same desire for a safe neighborhood with lots for kids to do.
If you see crime, like drugs or weapons or vandalism, make sure to call MPD. Rec center staff don’t have badges or guns. They need community members to help them report problems so the city can keep these places clean and safe for families and residents. Well cared-for recreation facilities improve the neighborhood and encourage people to stay instead of moving out as their families grow.
Pool at Turkey Thicket rec center. Photo by Brookland CDC on Flickr.
Now, it’s December. The weather is only getting worse and the days are getting shorter, but there are plenty of indoor options, like basketball and swimming. Some have workout equipment.
DC residents can find community parks and recreation facilities at DPR’s interactive map.
Have you been to your local rec center? What was your experience?