Vanessa Carder is the new San Bernardino director of parks, recreation, and community services, city officials announced Tuesday.
Carder will oversee youth, adult and senior programs, activities and sports at 35 parks in San Bernardino, four community centers and two senior centers. San Bernardino has about 500 acres of developed land and open space in its parks system, officials said.
“Vanessa Carder has a long history of delivering impactful recreation programs and services to the residents of San Bernardino,” City Manager Eric Levitt said in a statement. “We are thrilled to have her take the Parks Department to the next level.”
Carder has served as the city’s acting parks director since May. She has worked for the San Bernardino Parks Department since 2021, serving as deputy director and community recreation manager.
“I am truly honored to step into the role of Director and continue serving the community that I care so deeply about,” Carder said in a statement. “This is more than a professional opportunity — it’s a chance to deepen the relationships that make our city strong and vibrant.”
The Parks Department also oversees senior services, aquatics and a community garden, as well as community events such as Movies and Summer Concerts in the Park, Miracle on Court Street, Easter Egg-stravaganza and commemorations of Veterans Day and Memorial Day, officials said.
An experienced professional with nearly 25 years working in parks and community programs, Carder worked for the city of Baldwin Park for 14 years prior to coming to San Bernardino. She is a member of the California Parks and Recreation Society, or CPRS, the National Recreation and Park Association, Women in Leisure Services and the Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation. She is the recipient of CPRS professional service awards in 2010, 2013 and 2017.
“I believe that when we lead with heart and work together, we create lasting impact,” Carder added. “I’m excited to build on the foundation of trust, collaboration, and shared purpose to help San Bernardino Parks and Recreation grow in meaningful and inclusive ways.”
