CASE STUDY
Open Space and Recreation : St . Dorothy Catholic Church
St . Dorothy Catholic Church ’ s lush green lawn at the corner of South Eberhart Avenue and East 78th Street in Chicago ’ s Chatham neighborhood is an oasis in an area lacking in open space that is accessible to the public . Father Robert Miller , pastor at St . Dorothy since 2006 , is intent on fostering an inclusive atmosphere in the space , which measures about a quarter of an acre .
Without open space ( outside of vacant lots on busy commercial corridors ), providing safe , inclusive green space to the community is important to Father Miller . The lot is wellused throughout the year by the community , which uses it to play spontaneous football games that are catalyzed by neighborhood children , as well as the parish . In fact , Father Miller — a Civil War buff — has used the lawn to host Civil War reenactments ( see adjacent photograph ).
Each year , the green space enables St . Dorothy to host a community – wide block party , which includes activities for children and adults alike . During the most recent event , close to 500 people passed through to enjoy the water slides , horseback riding , dancing , and bingo — among other amusements . “ The event started about ten years ago , when I got here to bring our community together and the neighborhood together ,” said Father Miller .
Recreation Space — Congregations often provide community playgrounds and park-like green space , playing courts , and other outdoor recreation space , on average attracting 237 uses by community members each year . The average economic value of green space and recreational usage was $ 2,425 ( with a low of zero and a high of $ 79,643 ). Overall the contribution attributed to recreation and open space was very small (. 1 %), but its value may grow over time given that city parks and recreation budgets are strained , and access to green space is limited in many urban neighborhoods .
Civil War reenactor engages students on the grounds of St . Dorothy Catholic Church in Chicago . Courtesy of St . Dorothy Catholic Church .
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