Friends of
Mandela Parkway

We are a volunteer stewardship organization authorized by the City of Oakland to help to maintain and support Mandela Parkway, a 1.3 mile greenway running through the heart of West Oakland.

Aerial view of Mandela Parkway greenway

Our Mission

To sustain the parkway as a communal space and resource for all of Oakland through a combination of beautification, conservation, and community engagement

Historical photo of the Cypress Street Viaduct collapse area

Our History

Mandela Parkway was built following the destructive aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. That destruction included the collapse of the Cypress Street Viaduct, on whose former footprint the parkway is now built.

Map of Mandela Parkway showing cleanup locations
32nd street
9th street

Lending a Hand

How to Get Involved

Join us every second Saturday starting at 10am for our monthly cleanup of the parkway! With groups starting at both 9th street and 32nd, we walk the parkway and keep it litter-free. All supplies are provided and no experience is required.

In addition to the monthly cleanups, Friends of Mandela Parkway also organizes regular park replantings, leadership meetings, and tree maintenance. Keep up to date with all upcoming events and help us chart the future of Mandela Parkway by signing up for our mailing list!

Upcoming Events

Friends of Mandela Parkway meets regularly on the second Saturday of every month at 10am to conduct our regular cleanup of the parkway. Check here to see the next scheduled cleanup or an other planned FOMP events.

February 14

Monthly Mandela Parkway Cleanup

Join our cleanup teams at either 32nd or 9th street!

March 14

Monthly Mandela Parkway Cleanup

Join our cleanup teams at either 32nd or 9th street!

April 11

Monthly Mandela Parkway Cleanup

Join our cleanup teams at either 32nd or 9th street!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Join?
Simply show up to one of our monthly cleanup events! We meet on the second Saturday of every month at 10am. You can start at either 32nd Street or 9th Street. Sign up for our mailing list to get reminders about upcoming events.
Do I Need to Live on Mandela Parkway to Help Out?
No! We welcome volunteers from anywhere. The parkway is a community resource for all of Oakland, and we appreciate help from anyone who wants to keep it beautiful.
I’m Unable to Join the Cleanups, Is There Any Other Way I Can Contribute?
Yes! You can support us by spreading the word on social media, donating supplies, or helping with administrative tasks. Contact us to learn more about other volunteer opportunities.
Are You a Non-Profit?
We are a volunteer stewardship organization authorized by the City of Oakland. We operate as a community group dedicated to maintaining and improving Mandela Parkway.
What’s Your Relationship with the City of Oakland?
We are not a city organization or affiliated with the city other than being officially recognized by the city of Oakland as the community organization stewards for the parkway.