News Summary
During a recent meeting on March 18, 2025, the Columbia City Council officially declared March as Social Work Month, honoring the vital contributions of social workers in the community. The proclamation aims to raise awareness of the important role social workers play in fostering a just and compassionate society. Additionally, the council announced new funding for local parks and recreation facilities, improving community spaces for residents to enjoy, with new amenities expected to debut in the fall of 2025.
Columbia City Council Declares March 2025 as Social Work Month
In a heartwarming display of support, the City Council of Columbia recently wrapped up a meeting on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, by declaring March as Social Work Month. This special proclamation shines a spotlight on the crucial role that social workers play in our community and throughout the Midlands area of South Carolina.
The council’s proclamation is designed to encourage residents to recognize and value the profound contributions of social workers who tirelessly strive for a more just and compassionate society. Accepting this proud declaration was the dedicated Kameisha Heppard, Director of Homeless Services, along with her enthusiastic team from the Homeless Services department. Their hard work and commitment significantly impact the lives of many within the community.
Parks and Recreation Updates
The excitement didn’t stop there! During the same meeting, the City Council also approved new funding aimed at enhancing local parks and recreation facilities, reiterating their commitment to improving community spaces. This funding will be made possible through Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), ensuring that residents can enjoy better amenities right in their own backyards.
Mark your calendars for the fall of 2025! That’s when Columbia’s newest park amenities are expected to make their debut, bringing greater pleasure for families and individuals looking to unwind in nature. Here’s what’s coming to our green spaces:
- Shade sails will soon be added to Hyatt Park, providing much-needed shade over the playground equipment. This upgrade complements the already-installed zip line, swings, and other playground features that were newly introduced in 2024.
- A brand new playground is on the way at Randall Avenue Park. This exciting addition aims to grow upon the green space and previously installed amenities, such as picnic shelters, fenced areas, benches, and tables introduced last summer.
- Restroom renovations are also in the works! Expect upgrades and improvements to several facilities across the city, with a focus on installing hands-free technology. Locations include:
- Hyatt Park Outdoor Restrooms, 950 Jackson Avenue
- Pinehurst Park Indoor Restrooms, 2300 Pinehurst Road
- Katheryn M. Bellfield Booker Washington Heights Cultural Arts Center Indoor Restrooms, 2611 Grant Street
- Lorick Park Indoor Restrooms, 1600 Lorick Avenue
- T.S. Martin Park Outdoor Restrooms, 2700 Edison Street
- Eau Claire Print Building Indoor Restrooms, 3907 Ensor Avenue
- Charles R. Drew Wellness Center Indoor Restrooms, 2101 Solomon Way
With these exciting developments on the horizon, residents can look forward to enhanced recreational opportunities that promote health, wellness, and community engagement. This investment in parks and facilities not only beautifies the city but also demonstrates a commitment to providing enjoyable spaces for its citizens.
For those eager to stay in the loop regarding city affairs, including upcoming City Council meetings or general information about Columbia, simply visit www.ColumbiaSC.gov. Keeping informed has never been more accessible!
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Additional Resources
- Times Union: Greenport Emergency Housing
- Wikipedia: Social Work Month
- KMIZ: Child Care Subsidy Backlog
- Google Search: Child Care Subsidy Backlog
- ABC Columbia: Social Work Month
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Social Work
- New York Times: Social Work and Ideology
- Google Scholar: Social Work Ideology
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