In 2011, NRPA, along with the Atlanta Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and the Atlanta Housing Authority - and with valuable contributions from sponsors PlayCore, Converse, The Health Education and Communication Center of Atlanta and Superior International Industries - revitalized Selena Butler Park in Atlanta, Ga. The park is rich in African-American history, located just blocks from the Martin Luther King National Historical site and named for Selena Sloan Butler, one of the original founders of the National Parent-Teacher Association.

The Parks Build Community project was officially launched on June 8, 2011, with a special groundbreaking, and culminated with a grand reopening on November 2, 2011 during NRPA's Congress and Exposition - held in Atlanta, GA.

Selena Butler Park: June 2011 (Groundbreaking Ceremony)

NRPA hosted a special groundbreaking at the start of the Selena Butler Park revitalization project. Community members, local officials, and partners were in attendance to kick-off this important undertaking.

The revitalized Selena Butler Park was rededicated on November 2, 2011 with an event attended by hundreds of community supporters; park enthusiasts; partner and sponsor organizations; former NBA superstar Dikembe Mutumbo; and members of the National PTA, in honor of Mrs. Butler’s contributions to education. 

Revitalization included the installation of an active use plaza - including picnic tables, park benches, alternative outdoor games, game tables, and waste receptacles - as well as a picnic/grill area, new playground equipment, a corner plaza, refurbished multi-purpose field, and community garden area.

Research Project

NRPA commissioned Appalachian State University and East Carolina University to conduct long-term research to demonstrate how the revitalization of Butler Park will connect the surrounding community and positively contribute to the health and vitality of the community at large.

History of Selena Butler Park

Selena S. Butler Park – known to locals as Butler Park – is named for Selena Sloan Butler (1872-1964), a community activist, educator and a key founding member of the National Parent-Teacher Association.  The 3.5 acre park is located in Atlanta’s Auburn Avenue District and is bordered by Williams Holmes Borders Sr. Drive, Hilliard and Tanner Streets.

Please email Gina Cohen with questions or to help with future projects.