PURPOSE

 

Park Watch is a group of volunteers dedicated in keeping High Park a safe and friendly place for everyone to enjoy. High Park is a great place - 399 acres of playgrounds, playing fields, tennis courts, nature trails and historic sites - here for everyone to use and enjoy.

 

FUNCTION

 

The volunteers act as hosts, provide information and assistance when needed, identify and report any potential safety problems to park staff or police. Information circulars are handed out for High Park's dog off leash area, charcoal use, feeding zoo animals and trail bicycles.

 

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

 

Volunteers enjoy sharing their love of the park with others. They are not security or police officers, volunteers do not use physical intervention, aggression or threats when dealing with a problem. Instead they call police immediately. They help users become familiar and comfortable with the park and its programs.

 

HISTORY

 

Park Watch was conceived by a local citizen - Gerry Emerson. It officially launched in April 1997 due to heightened concerns about park safety in the summer of 1996. This program is an initiative of the High Park Community Advisory Council and was developed in partnership with the City of Toronto Parks and Recreation and 11 Division.