MIDDLEBURY -- Middlebury residents interested in Middlebury's parks and recreational programs can join a new organization called the Friends of the Middlebury Parks.

The Friends of the Middlebury Parks is a group willing to help the Middlebury Parks and Recreation Department and board by contributing time, expertise and funds to help maintain, improve and expand the parks and recreation programs. Individuals, families, civic groups and businesses can join.

The Friends of the Middlebury Parks will function similarly to the Friends of the Middlebury Community Public Library. It will provide a way for the Parks and Recreation Department to organize help, raise funds, increase public awareness and involve the community in the parks and recreation programs.

"Volunteers have helped the parks department with projects that would otherwise not have been done," said parks and recreation manager John Stout. "We appreciate the support we receive from the community."

"Looking to the future, volunteers and community financial support will become even more important," said John McKee, president of the Middlebury Parks and Recreation Board. "Our operating budget is smaller, due to increased expenses. At the same time, we are working on expansion of the parks through phase 2 of the Middlebury Greenway."

The Friends of the Middlebury Parks will give input into park projects and recreation programming. They will also receive tax benefits related to charitable contributions and personal satisfaction from involvement in community improvements.

To join, call John Stout at 825-3283.