Like many organizations, several of Friends of Williamston Parks’ projects were put on hold due to COVID-19 precautions. However, the board met regularly outside and via Zoom to work toward the group’s goals. While Williamston’s parks were closed as a precaution for a short period of time, they provided a recreational outlet for many people during this time of social distancing.

FOWP participated in an outreach event at the Williamston High School in January 2020 and secured contact information for eight new volunteers. In June, the group held a workday to clean up McCormick Park and reseal a portion of the wooden play structure. Members also surveyed the city playgrounds for upkeep needed and made minor repairs. FOWP contributed funds toward the additional mulch required to maintain a safe play surface.

The FOWP Little Free Library in McCormick Park continued to serve the community. FOWP board members and the public helped keep it well stocked.

In the fall, employees from Williamston’s Independent Bank gathered for a community service day to stain and seal several tree sculptures in McCormick Park. The bank also made a $500 donation to FOWP.

FOWP secured a private donation of $10,000 for the proposed picnic shelter at Volunteers Community Park, bringing the group more than halfway to its goal for that project. Fundraising and planning for the picnic shelter will continue in 2021.