As Dave Harvey retires from his co-leadership position at Park People, he reflects on the incredible journey since founding the organization in 2011.
Why are events in parks important? How do grants fit into Park People’s larger goals for creating change in city parks?
Park clean-ups bring neighbours together, foster connection, and leave a lasting impact—explore our 5-step guide to get started.
Explore inspiring community-led events funded by our microgrants program, from land-based learning to nature walks and skill-sharing workshops.
Finding volunteers doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. Here are some of his top tips to create an engaged, connected, and joyful volunteer team.
Come together with community members, park professionals, and municipal staff at the 2025 Toronto Park Summit!
By donating to Park People, you’ll support vibrant parks for everyone.
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Dynamic Leader, Community Advocate and Changemaker, Thorncliffe Park Autism Support Network
Analytical, energetic, and detail oriented, Shakhlo Sharipova is a passionate leader who thrives on turning ideas into action. With a democratic leadership style, she believes in collaboration, empathy, and empowering others to drive meaningful change. Her work focuses on bridging gaps in community services by organizing civic engagement initiatives, securing city grants, and leading fundraising efforts to bring projects to life.
A strong advocate for disability rights and women’s empowerment—particularly in marginalized communities—she lives by the principle: “Nothing about us without us.” Shakhlo prioritizes action over words, working hands-on to create inclusive, sustainable solutions. Her motto, “From a local movement to a global change,” reflects her commitment to grassroots impact with far-reaching influence.
Among her key achievements are spearheading projects to develop and maintain green community spaces, ensuring they serve as vibrant hubs for social connection and environmental stewardship. Whether through policy advocacy, community organizing, or project management, Shakhlo is dedicated to building a more equitable and engaged society—one initiative at a time.Shakhlo Sharipova received the Agnes Macphail award 2023 and the City of Toronto’s Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards in 2023 “Disability Access Award”. She is the Founder and Executive Director of TPASN Thorncliffe Park Autism Support Network, and the leader of the Coalition of Women in Leadership grassroots group.