Volunteer of the Month: James Umbanhowar
By: Mal Atkinson, Resource Coordinator
James Umbanhowar, who has lived in Durham’s Watts Hospital-Hillandale neighborhood for 15 years, is an avid cyclist and a delegate for Durham’s Participatory Budgeting (PB) process. His love for cycling led him to the idea of building a pump track in Belmont Park. The pump track would allow kids (and adults) to learn how to ride in a safe environment. In early 2019 James submitted a proposal to earmark funding through the PB process for a dirt bike pump track in park. His proposal was one of 11 chosen by Durham residents.
James worked with DPR’s Park Development team and together they collected neighbors’ opinions on the park’s restoration. One of his responsibilities was reach out the community and gather support. He emailed friends and bike listservs, contacted neighbors and spoke to the neighborhood association. Once the project got underway, James took on additional responsibilities to help make sure the park project stayed on track until its grand opening in September, 2021. “The best projects in Durham are the ones we get to work alongside the community from start to finish, taking their dreams and turning them into reality," said DPR Director Wade Walcutt.
James worked with DPR’s Park Development team and together they collected neighbors’ opinions on the park’s restoration. One of his responsibilities was reach out the community and gather support. He emailed friends and bike listservs, contacted neighbors and spoke to the neighborhood association. Once the project got underway, James took on additional responsibilities to help make sure the park project stayed on track until its grand opening in September, 2021. “The best projects in Durham are the ones we get to work alongside the community from start to finish, taking their dreams and turning them into reality," said DPR Director Wade Walcutt.
Thank you, James for Playing More with DPR!
If you are interested in volunteering at an upcoming event or would like additional information regarding the volunteer opportunities available, please visit our website, email Mal Atkinson at DPRvolunteers@durhamnc.gov or call 919-560-4355.
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