The Palm Beach County, Florida, Parks to Work Program is an effort that combines the forces of the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department, Community Services Department, Salvation Army, and other community partners to help homeless individuals who are living in John Prince Park in Lake Worth get resources to escape homelessness.

Miguel Crespo is the program’s first success story. Crespo started in the 6-month program in February 2018 and was able to obtain seasonal employment with the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department as a result of his experience as a Parks to Work participant. In March 2019, Crespo obtained a full-time position as a maintenance employee with the department, working primarily at Peanut Island in Riviera Beach. The program has allowed Crespo to successfully transition out of homelessness, obtain a job, buy a car, and secure permanent housing.

Watch this video to learn more about Miguel Crespo’s story and the Parks to Work Program.

Chris Korbelak, CPRP, is Manager of the Office of Public Engagement in the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department.