Advocacy is at the heart of what we do
Advocacy is essential to getting trails built, preserving open space,
and getting adequate parks funding.
Our work includes helping craft the future for our public spaces, with our partners in government, other nonprofits and community groups, and our members and partners. Our goal is to envision what can be, and work to make the vision a reality.
We joke about how “We go to all the boring meetings so you don’t have to,” but in fact TOSC is at every public meeting where policy, funding or planning for parks, trails and open spaces is discussed or decided—be it City Council, County Commission, Parks Advisory Boards, Master Plan work sessions, TOPS Working Committee, Trails Team, Colorado Springs Utilities, etc.—and is a respected voice for our public spaces. We weigh in on the issues, and report back to the public regularly.
We encourage you to connect with us at the Trails and Open Space Coalition.
We work to create a social and political climate in which local decisions to fund open space, parks and trails are approved and supported. We encourage organizations, businesses and individuals to get involved in the process. Government bodies do listen to their constituents. We help get the word out to the public about what the issues are, what decisions are being made, when public comment is requested, and how to make your voice heard. We listen to all our user groups—hikers, bikers, runners, equestrians—and work to get their concerns addressed.
Recent Advocacy News
News Wednesday, August 16, 2023
Wildflowers are blooming & Pikes Peak Marathon Needs Volunteers Bear Aware Late summer bear activity is starting to pick up. Black bear sightings in
News Wednesday, August 9, 2023
CoS and our Dogs, Happy Trails, and Starlight was Spectacular That’s a Wrap This past weekend, the Garden of the Gods was host to
News Wednesday, August 2, 2023
Listening Tour and Starlight Spectacular Tickets go up Today! 2023 Listening Tour with Mayor Yemi and City Council We strive to be your “eyes, ears
News Wednesday, July 26, 2023
World Ranger Day, Stratton Open Space and Palmer Park Work Days Shifting Into High Gear for the Starlight Spectacular! With the 27th annual Starlight
News Wednesday, July 19, 2023
It’s a Cruel Summer, Grey Hawk Park, and Where to Find Shade Too hot is not healthy for any of us! Local Vet clinics are
News Wednesday, July 12, 2023
Wildflowers, A New Dog Park, and Starlight Summer Wildflower Adventures Thanks to historic rainfall this growing season, the region’s wildflowers are extra special. After years
News Wednesday, July 5, 2023
Glad You Asked, A Beautiful Tribute, and Great Bike Rides Park to Park: Summer Family Stroll July 15th, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM “Get Out
News Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Storms, Splashing Around, and Starlight Spectacular More Storms Impact Local Trails Rain, hail and tornados… oh my! June has been the wettest month in Colorado Springs history and
News Wednesday, June 21, 2023
New Ring the Peak site is live! Member Hike and Volunteer Opportunities Please be mindful of our parks and trails after all the rain!