What an incredible day! On October 4, 2024, the Cincinnati Parks Foundation hosted its 18th Annual Hats Off Luncheon at Smale Riverfront Park. Nearly one thousand park advocates, donors and community leaders gathered for a splendid afternoon that celebrated the Foundation’s continued work to CREATE, CONSERVE and CONNECT through Cincinnati Parks.
Highlights from the 2024 Hats Off Luncheon
This year’s luncheon was a spectacular display of the community’s dedication to supporting Cincinnati’s green spaces. With Honorary Chairs Cathy Crain, Carrie Hayden and Edna Keown leading the way, the event was a true testament to what can be accomplished when people come together to champion our parks and the many ways they enhance our lives.
MORE is MORE
The theme More is More came to life in the bold, colorful, and whimsical attire. The John G. and Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront Park itself was the perfect setting, offering panoramic views of the river and downtown skyline, providing a stunning backdrop for photos and conversations.
Cincinnati Parks Foundation’s Impactful Work
The event’s program underscored the incredible breadth of the Foundation’s projects and programs, like Fall ReLeaf, Family Fun Days, Community Yoga, obLITTERators, be.well program and dozens of free events organized by neighborhood volunteer groups and sponsored by the Foundation. These initiatives help to preserve and enhance the beauty of Cincinnati Parks, ensuring that they remain accessible, sustainable, and inviting spaces for all to enjoy.
Honoring Dr. Jennifer Angeli: 2024 Phyllis W. Smale Award Recipient
Each year, the Phyllis W. Smale Award is presented to individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to improving Cincinnati Parks. This year’s honoree was Dr. Jennifer Angeli, founder of the be.well program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.
Dr. Angeli’s work has been nothing short of transformative. The be.well program empowers children with special needs to engage in fitness, wellness, and community-building activities—many of which take place in our city’s parks. Her efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for these children perfectly embodies the Foundation’s mission to make Cincinnati Parks welcoming and accessible for all.
Looking to the Future
The day was not only a celebration of past accomplishments, but also a look ahead to the future. The generosity of the luncheon’s attendees, who raised essential funds to continue the Foundation’s work, will help ensure that these efforts continue to thrive.
Relive the Magic
For those who missed the event or simply want to relive the magic, we invite you to check out the photos from the luncheon. The smiles, the fashion, and the joy captured in the album are a true reflection of the spirit of the day.
CREATE, CONSERVE, CONNECT
The 18th Annual Hats Off Luncheon was a shining example of what makes Cincinnati Parks—and the people who support them—so special. As we continue to create, conserve, and connect through our parks, we look forward to another year of making our green spaces accessible, welcoming, and thriving for all. Hats off to everyone who joined us in celebrating our city’s parks, and to those who are helping to create a better future for Cincinnati through their ongoing support. Here’s to the next chapter in our shared journey!
