TUCSON PARKS FOUNDATION 
SUN SHADE CAMPAIGN

The Tucson Parks Foundation has committed to a comprehensive program to retrofit existing playground equipment at our parks and recreation centers with shades structures.   Proceeds from our fundraising events as well as individual, organizational and corporate donations will be used to install sun shades at the over 75 public parks, including joint use facilities at public schools, that lack shade structures.  Our first installation occurred at the Archer Recreation Center in 2010.

Skin cancer is an epidemic in Southern Arizona.  Sun safety and awareness is particularly important for young children.   Childhood obesity and a lack of outdoor physical activity are also harmful to children’s health. Shading play structures will help prevent skin cancer and encourage outdoor play.  Shaded play equipment allows for the use of existing structures for longer periods of the day thereby increasing usage and maximizing the value of the structure.   Protecting play equipment from UV rays and direct sun will also extend the life of play equipment.