Launched publicly in 2021, RAPID 5 set out with a bold vision for Central Ohio: to create the nation’s largest system of interconnected parks centered around the five major waterways flowing through the region—Big Darby, Scioto, Olentangy, Alum Creek, and Big Walnut. The initiative garnered funding and support from the Columbus Foundation and private donors as it began its operations. Benefactor Group was engaged to assist RAPID 5 in several key areas, including developing its governance structure and recruiting founding board members. The team also created policies and procedures, identified a constituent relationship management system (CRM), facilitated the development of the organization’s vision, mission, and values, and established operating procedures to ensure a solid foundation for future growth.