FAQs

Q: I am interested in learning more about your programs.  How do I get more information?

A: As the primary partner of Seattle Parks and Recreation, we work together to announce our programs, classes and activities in three ways. 

1. Go to your local community center and pick up a quarterly brochure.  The brochure outlines all the programs, classes, and activities offered for that quarter, including cost, times, and locations.  Click here to find a recreation program or facility near you.
2. Browse online using the Parks registration tool known as SPARC and click Activities. 
3. Call your local community center and ask for more information about a program you are seeking.  For a complete list of contact information at each facility, please click here.

Q: I am interested in registering for a program, class, or activity.  What next?

A: Participants can register two ways for programs, classes, and activities.  First, you can go to the front desk of the Parks facility and register.  If you are registering for School-Age Care or Day Camps you must register in person on a first come, first serve basis. 

For all other programs, you can also register online at SPARC.

Q: I do not see a class that I am interested in taking.  Can I share this feedback with anyone?

A: There are several ways ARC collects information about community interests.  First, you can contact the Assistant Coordinator of your local community center.  ARC works closely with the Assistant Coordinators at each facility to create the quarterly program schedule and to create new programs. 

Second, you contact us via this website here.  This will be forwarded to the appropriate department for review.

Third, you can visit or join your local facility or program advisory council, a council comprised of volunteer community members committed to enhancing the mission of Seattle Parks and Recreation by providing a connection to the community and advocating for the success of citywide recreation services.  Visit your local facility or program website, or call the Coordinator for more information about their meetings.

Q: I am interested in signing up for a program, class, or activity, but I believe I need financial assistance to pay for it.  Does Seattle Parks and Recreation or ARC offer scholarships or financial aid?

A: ARC and Seattle Parks and Recreation are committed to serving all community members recreation and lifelong learning needs.  ARC and Parks both contribute to a scholarship fund that is distributed based on financial eligibility.  This application is only available at Seattle Parks and Recreation facilities. 

ARC also accepts DSHS child care subsidies for the Before & After School Care Program and for the Winter, Mid-Winter, Spring & Summer Break Camps.  Please contact your local child care program for more information on how to use your DSHS child care subsidy with us.

Q: I am interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities at my local facility or at a specific program.  Who should I contact?

A: There are many one-time and ongoing opportunities to volunteer with Seattle Parks and Recreation and ARC.  You can contact your local facility Coordinator or program staff for more information.  

We also invite community members who are interested in a long-term commitment to consider joining one of our 38 advisory councils.  Advisory council members serve a up to a three year term and meet once a month to provide a connection between the community, ARC and Seattle Parks and Recreation and to advocate for the success of citywide recreation services.  Serving as an advisory council member is one of the best ways to give back to your community by representing your neighbors’ recreation and lifelong learning needs and interests.

If you decide that you would like to volunteer with us, you will need to complete a volunteer registration packet that includes a Washington State Criminal Background Check.  Contact your local facility Coordinator or program staff to determine if this is the right opportunity for you.  Click here to find a recreation program or facility near you.

Q: I am interested in learning more about employment opportunities at my local facility or at a specific program.  Who should I contact?

A: If you are interested in working for ARC, please see our many employment opportunities here.  If you are interested in working for Seattle Parks and Recreation, please visit the City of Seattle’s employment website.