Elings Park Foundation

In 1965, Elings Park was santa barbara's first major reclamation project, transforming the city landfill into a magnificent 230-acre park-the largest community supported, nonprofit, public park in America. No city or county monies are used for maintenance, improvements, or operations. Every year, 300,000 children, youth, and adults from all backgrounds and from throughout the county utilize Elings Park for softball, rugby, soccer, bmx, tennis, recreation, theatrical and musical entertainment, hiking, paragliding, dog walking, falling in love, weddings, and family gatherings-an average of 822 visits per day and 100+ sports teams! The park is open 363 days per year and admission is free. According to research from the trust for public land, green spaces reduce violent crime; counter stress and social isolation (especially for older adults); improve concentration for children with attention deficit disorder; enhance relaxation; and promote self-esteem and resilience.