Guiding Strategic Investment in Community-Informed Parks, Amenities, and Greenspace
WILMINGTON, N.C. The Endowment is pleased to announce it has selected Weston & Sampson to lead a county-wide Comprehensive Assessment of Recreational Opportunities in New Hanover County. This assessment will comprehensively evaluate the recreational landscape, map assets, identify service and facility gaps, and intentionally engage community voices to inform strategic investment areas and guide the pursuit of facilities, greenspace preservation, and community-informed amenities.
“Universal access to parks, programs, and public spaces is essential for a healthy, resilient, and connected community,” said Sophie Dagenais, Interim President & CEO of The Endowment. “This assessment grows directly out of our updated strategic plan, which prioritizes a vibrant economy and quality of life for all. A key part of that vision is expanding recreational opportunities across New Hanover County.”
The process will emphasize community engagement at every stage. Over the coming months, Weston & Sampson will host focus groups, interviews, and consultative sessions with residents, local organizations, and public leaders. Special attention will be given to hearing from youth and families, whose voices are central to shaping accessible and inclusive recreational spaces. “By gathering data and engaging our community, we can ensure our grantmaking is nimble, impactful, strategic and reflective of local needs,” added Dagenais.
The Endowment issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) on July 18, 2025, to identify a partner to lead this crucial initiative under its Community Development pillar. Following outreach via local, statewide, and national channels, The Endowment received eight proposals by the August 22 deadline.
Weston & Sampson was selected for its holistic, objective approach, which balances parks and recreation planning and design with expertise in operational, organizational, economic, and market analysis. Their team brings extensive national experience, completing over 1,000 plans across the U.S., combined with local knowledge and relationships built through prior projects in the region, including nCino Sports Park and work on the City of Wilmington’s Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
About The Endowment
The Endowment’s mission is to improve the health, education, safety, and economic opportunity of every person in our community. The Endowment was established from the sale of the county-owned New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2020. The initial fund has grown from nearly $1.3 billion to allow millions of dollars to be awarded as grants each year in perpetuity. To stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities, news, and community events, follow The Endowment on social media or subscribe to the newsletter at www.theendowment.org
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