Invest in south Fresno because we’re worth it

I’m 20 years old. I live in south Fresno. I’m worth the investment.

I have many friends and family members, and we’re all worth the investment.

I want the leaders of Fresno to know that an investment in parks is an investment in youth and families. A park represents so much. It’s a place to play, it’s a place to connect with my community; it’s a place to be healthy, and it should be a safe place.

In south and central Fresno, my options are limited, but I am happy and encouraged to see that Romain Playground will get a new skate park, thanks to Fresno Building Healthy Communities and the hundreds of young people who participated in the design of the new park. I am one of those young people, and I’m proud that my voice was heard.

Now, I hope the city and others will support creating more green space across Fresno and in neighborhoods that need it most.

This story was originally published September 18, 2015 at 9:23 AM with the headline "Invest in south Fresno because we’re worth it."