DARDEN Foundation | Preservation

NRPA's mission is to advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people. NRPA represents local, state and regional park and recreation agencies in the United States through its vast network of 105,000 parks in all 50 states whose members touch the lives of more than 300 million people in rural communities, suburban neighborhoods, and urban centers.

National Recreation and Park Association

Operated by the National Recreation and Park Association, the Great American Trails program restores and sustains trails and open spaces, making communities more livable and allowing families to come together in nature.

In 2011, Darden Foundation provided $231,000 to support Great American Trails in eight communities nationwide. The funding will improve local park trails by extending the trails, adding educational signage, expanding access for people with disabilities, and installing benches and shade structures. LongHorn Steakhouse will engage their restaurant teams in this effort locally.

Darden's support generates several benefits for these communities. The improvements will promote healthy lifestyles by increasing access to activities such as hiking, running, biking and horseback riding. Additionally, the upgrades will create a distinct sense of place and a source of community pride, enhancing the park's overall character. These efforts help to protect plants and animals, guard against pollution run-off and provide shelter to air-filtering plants — conserving important natural assets throughout the nation.

To learn more about Darden's focus on sustainability, click here.

The Darden Restaurants, Inc. Foundation partners with organizations across the country to provide resources where they're needed most.
Some of these partners are: