Resource Guide

Dog owners in New York City need their dog runs. And the dog runs need you. Whether you’re part of an existing group or starting one from scratch, heading up a volunteer organization is no small task. The NYC Dog Runs guide provides tips and resources on a variety of topics, from community engagement tactics, to funding sources, to understanding the tangled web of city bureaucracy. But we can’t do it without you!

NYC Dog Runs is an ongoing, crowdsourced effort to connect dog run volunteer groups across the city in order to share knowledge and best practices. Do you have something to add? Please contact us here.

Why Dog Runs Matter

 

To understand why dog runs matter, it’s important to understand their impact on the greater community.

Breaking Down Bureaucracy

 

We aim to demystify the dog runs’ relationship to NYC Parks Department, City Parks Foundation, Partnerships for Parks, Community Boards and City Council.

Community Engagement & Volunteerism

 

We will offer best practices for community engagement, including signage at the park, digital outreach, community events, partnering with local businesses, etc.

Maintaining Your Dog Run

 

We will provide a list of necessary tasks and offer tips on scheduling cleanups, like the It’s My Park initiative. We will offer solutions for crowdfunding, crowdsourcing skills and motivating volunteers.

Improving Your Dog Run

 

We will explain the difference between minor repair requests and Capital Projects and how to pursue a capital project if necessary. We will also discuss the importance of visibility in the community and having a “show of force” at Community Board meetings.

Funding & Grant Applications

 

We will examine the various forms of funding available (Mayoral, Borough President, Council discretionary spending, etc.), as well as the grant application process via City Parks Foundation.

Filing for Non-Profit Tax Status

 

We will lay out the pros and cons of forming a 501(c)(3) organization, like increased authority with the Parks Department (pro) and increased personal liability as a non-profit board member (con).

Thank you to the community members who have already offered their expertise to NYC Dog Runs!