Local Leader Aims to Spark Joy Through Free Events and Partnerships in Norman
Whatever he’s involved in, Jeff Moody wants everybody to have a Disney kind of experience.
While in college, Moody participated in the Disney College Program. Now he’s brought that mindset to the City of Norman Parks and Recreation Department, where he has worked as the program coordinator for special events and multimedia since September 2024.
“I want people to leave feeling good and like it was a great event or interaction,” Moody said. “I want them to get that Disney kind of experience and magic.”
The Norman Parks and Recreation Department oversees the city’s parks and public facilities, such as the new Young Family Athletic Center, and coordinates special events for the community. The department’s mission is “to provide the community of Norman with safe, inclusive and accessible parks, recreation and cultural experiences that enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages.”
Born and raised in Norman, Moody said the city’s parks are somewhere he has spent a lot of time ever since he was a little kid. He was drawn to the role in the department because he wanted to be part of giving people the opportunity to have fun in those spaces.
“We provide spaces that let people get out in the community, get active and enjoy some of the free things that we offer,” he said. “We have a lot of really cool things going on all the time. Almost everything we do is free, and we encourage people to get out there and enjoy the events.”
Prior to joining the Parks and Recreation team, Moody admitted he did not realize how much goes into what the department does. He added he and his coworkers want to do the best they can for the community, so they are always trying to step up their game and grow their offerings. For example, during Winter Fest, they put on the first drone show for the City of Norman. This summer’s schedule features free events for community members to enjoy, including a Lego Batman Movie Night on June 13 at Lions Park and a Juneteeth Celebration on June 19 at Reaves Park.
In addition to watching “The Lego Batman Movie,” attendees of the movie night can also explore a comic book exhibit coordinated by the OKPOP Museum and the Norman Firehouse Art Center or build their own LEGO minifigure. During the movie nights, there are food trucks where people can purchase dinner, but Moody said people are also welcome to bring their own food.
July 4th’s festivities include the annual fireworks show; Red, White and Blue Swim at the Westwood Family Aquatic Center; and a 5K. There will also be a barbecue competition, a new event hosted by the Masonic Lodge.
Along with Firehouse Art Center, other community partners for Norman Parks and Recreation are Sooner Theatre, The Depot, the Moore-Lindsay Historical House Museum, Norman Arts Council, Norman Optimist Club, Norman Sports Commission, HealthyLivingNorman, Mary Abbott Children’s House and Center for Children and Families (CCFI).
Having previously worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters and as an active board member for the Mary Abbott Children’s House, Moody understands how much nonprofits rely on other organizations.
“We already had these built-in relationships, which was great because I kind of walked in and get to enjoy them,” Moody explained. “We have a lot of partners we work with, and that’s what we want. Our mission is to make sure we lift each other up, and we’re here for what’s best for the city.”
More information about events hosted by the Norman Parks and Recreation Department can be found on Facebook (Norman Parks and Recreation) or Instagram (@normanparks). People can also visit normanok.gov/residents-visitors/parks-recreation to sign up for the department’s newsletter.– BSM
By Chelsey Koppari
