In response to an ever-growing demand for trails and continued concern about rising childhood obesity rates, GOCO is requesting concept papers for its new $5 million Paths to Parks program. The special initiative is designed to increase trail access for youth and families to existing parks, open spaces, natural areas and environmental education opportunities.

By funding projects that provide free, safe, non-motorized access to local parks and other public areas, GOCO hopes to help encourage youth and families to explore outdoor recreation amenities in their communities statewide. The GOCO Board will evaluate Paths to Parks concept papers, and at its October 15, 2013 will invite selected concepts to submit full applications. Grant awards will be made in June 2014.

Concept papers are due at the GOCO office by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2013.

For more information about the Paths to Parks program, contact Jackie Miller at 303-226-4524 or jmiller@goco.org, or visit the Paths to Parks page.

GOCO prefers to receive concept papers electronically at trails@goco.org; please put “Paths to Parks” in the subject line. If you are unable to deliver your concept paper electronically, please deliver four hard copies by hand or mail to Great Outdoors Colorado, Paths to Parks Grant Cycle, 303 E. 17^th Avenue, Suite 1060. Denver, CO 80203.