Parks & Rec

We want everyone active in recreation activities - no matter what!

Merriam Parks and Recreation is committed to providing quality recreation opportunities to all resident households, regardless of their economic condition. Merriam families may be eligible to receive a scholarship for membership or other programs. 

Scholarships

• Membership Scholarship: This scholarship helps Merriam families pay for a resident household membership. The goal is to keep kids active in recreational activities.  

• Dolphin Fund: Eligible families receive up to $100 per year per youth toward swim team and swim lesson registration.  

• Senior FitClass Pass Scholarship: This scholarship helps eligible Merriam seniors (60+), who are are members of the Merriam Community Center, have the opportunity to participate in a fitness classes. 

• KanCare Assistance for Youth Programs (Qualified State-Aid): Through United Healthcare, your child can participate in recreational activities through the Merriam Park and Recreation Department. Contact your KanCare representative to receive paperwork to take advantage of this opportunity.

Learn More and Apply

Established in 1988 as a means to provide support for Merriam's recreation facilities, programs, and parks, the Foundation has provided more than $175,000 to support the Parks and Recreation Department. The Foundation’s largest fundraising activity is the annual Flags 4 Freedom event, held during the week of July 4. 

Individuals or groups wanting to contribute in honor or memory of a loved one can complete the online ribbon dedication form, call 913-322-5550, or contact Anna Slocum by email for more information.

The American flags, which have flown during the Fourth of July Flags 4 Freedom event in downtown Merriam, are available for public displays. Please review the Flag Usage Policy if you're interested in using the flags.  

Flag Usage Policy(PDF, 342KB)

Recent foundation projects include:

• Program and membership scholarships for low income Merriam residents
• Sponsorship of Flags4Freedom event
• Benches at Brown and Chatlain Playgrounds
• Sponsorship of Merriam Drive Live
• Sponsorship of the Heartland Purchase Award

In 2003, the Irene B. French Giving Tree was established by the Foundation to recognize individuals and community partners who donate financial support. 

The Giving Tree also offers an opportunity for gifts in honor or in memory of a family member or friend. All donations are tax deductible. If you are interested in supporting the works of the foundation, please contact the Merriam Parks & Recreation Department at 913-322-5550.

The Merriam Park and Recreation Advisory Board is an appointed body that provides recommendations for operations and program priorities concerning the Merriam Parks and Recreation facilities. For more information about this board, contact the Merriam Parks and Recreation Department at 913-322-5550. 

Meetings

• Meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of the month (January - November), beginning at 6 p.m.

• Location: Merriam Community Center; 6040 Slater St.; Merriam, KS 66203

Learn More