There’s no shortage of innovative program opportunities in Southlake. Our recreation staff takes pride in providing world-class opportunities for Southlake residents to enjoy from our beloved Camp Mania, Club Metro, to PLAY in the Park!

No one is more prepared for the process of program ideation and execution than our excellent Program Coordinators. Jason Ellison is the newest face to join the Programs Team, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him on board. Jason has a passion for sports and recreation. He understands that giving back to the community is truly a life-long calling.

Here’s what you should know about our new Programs Coordinator:

What is your professional background?
Hello, my name is Jason Ellison. I’m from Kansas City, Missouri, and I moved to Texas in 2018 to study Recreation, Event, and Sports Management at the University of North Texas. I started working as a Site Director for the YMCA in 2019, where I learned I loved working with kids, whether it was in sports, camps, or after-school care.

What do you love most about Programs/ Parks and Recreation?
Honestly, I don't know what's not to love! Parks and Recreation is everything to me because I was in foster care when I was one to seven years old. Participating in programs and athletics kept me going. The reach and impact Parks and Recreation professionals have is outstanding. It can be the thing that holds communities together.

What are you most excited about for your new position?
I’m very excited about creating a new and higher standard of excellence for our programs than what was set by my predecessors, which is no small task! Southlake takes pride in delivering the best services possible and providing world-class experiences. I’m excited to help achieve that goal.

What is something people should know about you?
I love connecting with people, learning about them, and creating friendships!

What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love watching sports, especially football and track. I also love DJing and Cooking. I’m known as the grill master! I also am a gamer, so add me if anybody has a PS5!

What can participants look forward to for future programs?
I would definitely say to lookout for new and innovative programs. The recreation and sports worlds are changing, and we have to find a way to bridge the gaps so our younger generation can learn and grow.

Welcome to the team, Jason! We know you'll do an incredible job! Look out for Jason at Summer Camp Mania and say hi!