Two and a half years ago, Herriman City and involved residents agreed that a nonprofit could provide support for community arts, parks, trails and culture that the city could not. Nonprofits sometimes have access to resources that a city doesn’t, and they enable nongovernmental committees to oversee specific areas. To bolster arts, parks, trails and culture within the city, nonprofit Friends of Herriman was established in January of 2023.

The group was also created with volunteer opportunities in mind. From an hour here and there to an ongoing position, the group provides numerous ways to help. “Many times, individuals are not sure how to get involved… and FOH is a… road map for those who want to give back,” Board Director Chris Berbert said. “The purpose of FOH is to provide meaningful… programs in Herriman City.”

The group hopes these programs will “promote healthy living through physical and creative activities.” 

Arts

The city has a healthy arts presence thanks to Friends of Herriman. “There is nothing that drives our world-leading economy like creativity, and there is nothing that drives creativity like the arts. It is vital that we foster them and invest in them,” the group’s website says.

Local residents enjoy a robust selection of performing arts programs, including a community choir, jazz band, orchestra, theater workshops and community theater opportunities for families, youth and children. An arts scholarship is also in the works, and last month, Friends of Herriman wrapped up this year’s summer musical, “Tarzan.”

“We are always looking for volunteers in the arts. We have large production teams that work together to produce our musicals, and it takes lots of hands and expertise in lots of areas,” Arts Director Emily Berbert said. “There is always something for everyone if they are willing to give time… As long as you have a desire to learn…, we have the ability to train and help you get that experience. Our director for ‘Tarzan’ started as our make-up artist…”

The group also sponsors visual arts within the community, most notably, an annual chalk art competition that is part of Herriman Towne Days in June. “We are looking for more volunteers to head up additional programs in the visual arts area…,” Chris Berbert said.

Park and trail maintenance

Through its aid in park and trail maintenance, the nonprofit seeks to encourage physical activity, support the environment, provide mental health benefits and increase community cooperation and interaction. 

“Parks and trails… reduce stress, which can improve their mental health,” the Centers for Disease Control says on its website. “... neighbors can meet, which improves community connections. Parks can… [reduce] air and water pollution and [mitigate] urban heat islands.”

Volunteers of all ages meet once a month during the summer to help care for Herriman’s parks and trails by addressing weeds, garbage and other problems. The next park meeting is on July 22 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and trail volunteers will next meet on July 12. Residents only work for as long as they can.

“It’s a great way to give back, meet others and take pride in our community—one park at a time!” the website says. “For updates and changes follow us on social media @friendsofherrimanparks.”

On its website, the group provides a form to report issues with trails, including fallen trees, large or loose rocks, garbage, overgrowth or erosion.

Park events

Though service is a large part of the organization, Friends of Herriman fosters more than just work parties. Parents of younger children are also invited to free “Play Dates in the Park!” Each month, Friends of Herriman hosts a playdate at a different park, offering games, story times, crafts and more. Stop by the next playdate on July 14 at the Rosecrest Splash Pad from 8 to 11 a.m.

“It’s a perfect way to discover new parks, meet other local families and make playful memories all summer long!” the website says. 

The nonprofit also sponsors “Concerts in the Park, a FREE monthly summer music series at J. Lynn Crane Park, created to bring the Herriman community together through music, food and fun.” Each concert provides a selection of food trucks while patrons enjoy live performances. Chairs and blankets are encouraged. The next concert is scheduled for July 14 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Every month during the summer, the group hosts its free family “Skate the Park!” night at the ice ribbon at J. Lynn Crane Park. Attendees can bring skates nd come enjoy music and lights. From the 1970s to the 2000s, each night is centered on a decade, and dressing up is encouraged. Photo ops will be provided. On July 25, come decked out in your best 1980s workout clothes, and get ready for ‘90s rhythm and blues on Aug. 15. 

Culture

Many may be unaware that Friends of Herriman also organizes the Miss Herriman and Miss Teen Herriman scholarship programs. “Sharing the most authentic and poignant stories of women in history and women now making history, Miss Herriman… [is an important part] of the Herriman community,” its website says.

Residents may have also seen the nonprofit’s Herriman Smiles display at city hall last October. Focusing on diverse members of our community, the exhibit was a celebration of what makes us unique and how we each contribute to our city. Keep an eye out for the second annual Herriman Smiles event this fall.

Volunteers and Funding

“The largest challenge is always finding volunteers…” Chris Berbert said. “This is not meant to be overwhelming. It is meant to be a way for you to spend the time you have in a meaningful way.”

“Another challenge is trying to find places for all [the] programs. Herriman City is wonderful to provide what they can, but we are growing so much but can’t continue to serve the community without space…,” Emily Berbert said. 

Though the group receives some government funding, it always needs more. “When donors come forward to help out, we are able to help bring more miles of trails to our community, additional art programs, cultural events and awesome events for everyone in our parks,” Chris Berbert said.

“[Friends of Herriman gives] residents a way to take an active role in shaping our community,” Mayor Lorin Palmer said. “Whether it’s through concerts in the park, trail cleanups or youth programming, they’re actively making Herriman a better place.”

“When you serve others, it tends to have a domino effect, which just makes a great place to live,” Chris Berbert said.

For more information about volunteering or donating, visit www.friendsofherriman.org or www.friendsofherriman.org/volunteer.λ