Editor’s note: In this blog series, District Marketing Mojo, Verdin President and CEO Mary Verdin interviews a leader in the world of marketing and communications for special districts and business improvement districts each month. Check back here regularly for new interviews.
Kindness & Community: How Walnut Creek Arts + Rec Enriches Our Lives
Imagine a place where you can learn to swim in the morning and decorate desserts in the afternoon. Then get ready for a night on the town and take in a concert or show at the theater. 
That’s the magic of Walnut Creek Arts + Rec (A+R), a city department dedicated to providing enriching experiences for its community. But A+R stands out, as its impact goes beyond classes and activities. At its heart lies a philosophy of empathy and understanding, a reminder that kindness is the cornerstone of a healthy community.
Kevin Safine, director of A+R, embodies this philosophy. Working for the City of Walnut Creek in California for 30 years, Kevin’s journey started in human resources, then he moved to Arts + Rec as the business manager. Subsequently he served as the assistant to the city manager before coming back to Arts + Rec, first as assistant director, and then moving into the director’s role in 2014. Kevin follows in his late father’s footsteps, who was in recreation for 25 years at UC Berkeley.
Over the years, Kevin has seen firsthand the transformative power of arts and recreation. He speaks passionately about A+R’s resident professional theater company, Center Repertory Company, which brings high-quality productions to the community. For a city of Walnut Creek’s size, it’s rare to have a resident professional theater company, and for 57 years, Center REP has produced professional performances that run the complete range of human emotion and curiosity. Attending their annual rendition of A Christmas Carol is a tradition for thousands of families across the region, part of the overall programming that brings a balanced blend of new works, known classics and creative interpretations of both to the community.
The impact A+R has on people’s lives is what truly excites Kevin, who says they often receive comments that the programs they offer keep residents motivated, active and feeling like they have a supportive community. Kevin says that input with the underlying note of “Your program saved my life,” really speaks to the quality that Arts + Rec brings to people’s lives. Kevin explains how one of their aquatic programs teaches adults to swim, helping them overcome their fears and learn a life skill that could, literally, save their lives.
And then there’s pickleball. As every community has come to know, this growing sport brings a passionate, motivated group of people together, being active, social and enjoying life.
A+R recognizes that everyone has a desire to connect, learn and grow. Their goal is to offer a space for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to explore their passions, overcome challenges, and find a sense of belonging.
This commitment to inclusivity is evident in Kevin’s desire to break down barriers and reach new demographics. He acknowledges the challenge of connecting with young adults, a group often juggling busy schedules and life transitions. A+R is actively working on innovative ways to engage this group, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Take, for instance, A+R’s recent Teen Arts Night, a collaborative effort with the Youth Leadership Commission and the Center for Community Arts. This event offered an evening of artistry, featuring live local bands and food trucks, tailored to resonate with younger audiences. Beyond this, A+R’s array of programs, including Teen Arts Labs and Recreation Camps, provide avenues for young people to explore their passions and hone leadership skills. A+R’s partnership with the Rainbow Community Center underscores a commitment to fostering positive self-identity among LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults, ages 11-25. As Pride Month approaches, A+R looks forward to further collaboration, reinforcing its role as a welcoming space for all.
Kevin’s vision for A+R extends beyond programs, facilities, and even Walnut Creek’s city boundaries. It’s about building community and a place where people can have different opinions and healthy dialogue, and get away from the post-pandemic divisive frame of mind. He encourages everyone he encounters to carry a message of kindness.
For more information on Walnut Creek Arts + Rec and its mission to impact lives in an inclusive, fun and innovative environment, you can visit them online, follow them on Facebook and Instagram and connect with.