City of Columbus - File #: 1724-2026

• File #: 1724-2026
• Version: 1
• Type: Ordinance
• Status: Second Reading
• File created: 6/2/2026
• In control: Neighborhoods, Recreation, & Parks Committee
• On agenda: 6/29/2026
• Title: To authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into a not-for profit service contract with Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau Inc DBA Greater Columbus Sports Commission in support of the “Women Win Here” initiative; to authorize the transfer and appropriation of $250,000.00 from the general fund to the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund; to authorize an interfund transfer of $250,000.00 with Recreation and Parks Operating Fund; to authorize the expenditure of $250,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($250,000.00)

Explanation

Background: This ordinance authorizes the Recreation and Parks Director to enter into a not-for-profit service contract with the Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau Inc DBA Greater Columbus Sports Commission to advance the “Women Win Here” initiative. The?Columbus Sports Commission, the City of Columbus, and the?Columbus Recreation and Parks Department?have been working together through two closely connected efforts-IgniteHER Columbus?and the?Women Win Here / Girls Sports programming expansion-to strengthen girls’ sports participation and long-term pathways in the city. Its core goals include keeping girls in sports longer, expanding access to athletic opportunities, and building leadership pathways through sport.?

At the same time, the?Columbus Recreation and Parks Department (CRPD)?has been a key delivery partner through its youth programming infrastructure-especially community leagues, recreation centers, and outreach-based sports programs. In practice, this includes community-based programming, youth engagement campaigns, and partnerships with schools and local organizations.

CRPD initiated its SPARK program in 2025 which uses sports and recreation as a platform to build confidence, resilience, teamwork, communication skills, and healthy lifestyles while fostering positive relationships with peers and community role models. The program aligns with the department's mission to connect community members through wellness, creativity, and equitable access to opportunities.

The initiative focuses on four main pillars:
· Increasing youth participation for girls in sports
· Expanding women’s sports events and visibility in Columbus
· Developing leadership and career pathways from athletics
· Supporting innovation and investment in women’s sports ecosystems?
Integration with Columbus Recreation and Parks Department

CRPD helps translate the initiative into on-the-ground programming by:
· Hosting and expanding?girls’ recreational ...