ABOUT
Park Pals
Fostering connection through play in our community.
Our Story
Park Pals began with a simple idea — that play is one of the most powerful ways to connect.
Founded by Allison McGaver, a nonprofit professional with a passion for early childhood development, Park Pals was created to bring caregivers and young children together for free, easygoing play experiences in local parks. With a background in child care settings and years of nonprofit work focused on families and community connection, Allison saw a need for welcoming spaces where play could happen without pressure, cost, or expectations.
What started as a few small pop-up playdates has grown into a joyful, volunteer-supported network of families across Waukesha and Milwaukee County — all discovering that connection happens best when we slow down, show up, and let kids lead the way.
Park Pals is fully volunteer-run and led alongside Allison’s full-time work, rooted in the belief that access to play and community should always be free and inclusive.
What We Offer
From story time to sensory play, every Park Pals experience is designed to spark curiosity, connection, and joy.
Play, learn, and connect at no cost - with outdoor adventures and themed activities for kids.
Gather for songs, movement, and stories that build early language and social skills.
Meet other caregivers, share stories, and find your village through play-based connection.
Our Values
We believe in simple, powerful things:
- Play — Because play is how kids learn, imagine, and grow.
- Connection — Because no caregiver should feel alone.
- Inclusivity — Because all families are welcome here.
- Respect & Kindness — Because we share the park, the moment, and the joy.
We ask all families to bring their kindness, patience, and openness — and to help keep our gatherings safe and welcoming for everyone.
Meet Our Organizer
When I started Park Pals, I just wanted to give families a reason to get outside, connect, and play together. What began as a small group of parents meeting at local parks has grown into a community that reaches thousands of families across Southeastern Wisconsin — and I’m so proud of how far it’s come.
As a former educator and mom, I know how important early childhood experiences are — not just for kids, but for parents, too. My goal has always been simple: to create spaces where families feel welcome, supported, and rooted in play.
Every new face, every giggle, and every park day reminds me why this work matters. And I’m especially grateful to my son, Wes — the original Park Pal — whose curiosity and joy continue to inspire everything we do.
Allison McGaver
Founder
Parent Voices
"Joining Park Pals has been a breath of fresh air — my little one gets to explore, and I get to connect with other caregivers who ‘get it’. We look forward to it every week!”
- Julia, Brookfield
Parent Voices
“What I love most is the simplicity — show up, play, laugh, and leave feeling richer. The pressure is gone, and the joy remains.”
- Mark & Dana, Mequon
Parent Voices
“I was new to the area and felt isolated - but Park Pals welcomed us instantly. Now, the park feels like home, and we feel like we belong.”
- Priya & Arjun, Waukesha
Parent Voices
“My toddler has blossomed - from watching from the sidelines to running off with the other kids. And for me? Real friendships beyond the playground.”
- Heather, Pewaukee
Parent Voices
“We love the gentle rhythm of story time, songs and open play. It’s exactly what we needed to reset our week and reconnect as a family.”
- Tom, Shorewood
Our Park Pals Sponsors
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