Bed-Stuy Fundraiser Imagines New Future For Jackie Robinson Park

BED-STUY, BROOKLYN — From Coach Frances Ferdinand's view from the tennis courts, Bed-Stuy's Jackie Robinson Park Playground is in many ways a microcosm of the rapidly-changing neighborhood around it.

With everyone from Thai Chi groups, to bodybuilders, to noisy teenagers, to long-time Black residents and newer, white neighbors — the park is small-scale reflection of the diverse community's strengths, but also its challenges. Namely, gentrification and a recent spike in gun violence in the surrounding blocks.

But that's exactly why the park, specifically its tennis courts, is the perfect place to tackle all of the above, Ferdinand said.

"We all live in this neighborhood together — there’s no reason we can’t become more interactive," she told Patch. "Tennis is one of those sports where it bridges any gap. You can be from any background. Any person can play."

The vision for the park has led Ferdinand and other neighbors to start a campaign for transforming Jackie Robinson Park Playground into a community haven this summer, starting with an "Open Courts" program.

The program, which has gained nearly $5,000 in support through a fundraiser, would set up weekly events where neighbors from all backgrounds can come socialize with one another through tennis.

Each event will include a guest speaker from a local organization, starting with the B.R.O Experience, a nonprofit that has been working with young men who live in a nearby housing complex that has been at the center of the recent spate of gun violence.

"...We believe breaking down real and imagined barriers to forge authentic relationships is the only way to address the violence," Ferdinand writes on the fundraiser.

"By choosing a manageable space like the park playground, we hope to begin to establish a new culture—one of compassion, inclusion and trust; based on the belief that we all want to live a productive, meaningful life that is not consumed by senseless rage and violence."

The initiative will be funded through about $10,000 raised through the fundraiser, as well as matching funds provided by Con Edison, Ferdinand said.

It is slated to kick off next week, on Earth Day, when the group will host a meet-and-greet and clean-up for the park and playground. The eight two-hour open court times, as well as other events with B.R.O Experience will be held May through August.

"Come on out and meet your community, be a part of your community," Ferdinand said. "Come to socialize and create a safe space."

Find the fundraiser here.