As a profession we often focus on the economic impact parks & recreation has on a community. But that is just a small piece of how our jobs can change lives and impact communities .  
- Photo courtesy of Burlington Recreation & Parks  

Did you know Operations and Capital Spending at Local and Regional Parks in NC created just over $3 Billion in economic activity in 2013 and supported 26,278 jobs in our state?  The Economic Impact of Local Parks* study, provides estimates of the direct, indirect and induced effects of local and regional park agency spending on the economy. The spending in the study includes both annual operations and capital expenditures. The report includes estimates of economic output, value added (i.e., GDP), employment and labor income.  This study allows us to quantify what this profession does in our state.  NRPA has worked to put a numeric value on what we do.  Thank you NRPA!

But our impact is more than just dollars and cents right?

Is it Increased self-esteem for youth participants?

What about better physical fitness for people of all ages?

Stress reduction?

Cleaner air and water?

Smiles?

It is all of those things, and so much more!

I’m pretty sure if I were to ask each of you how you make an impact in your community, I would find some similarities in answers. I also think there would be some unique answers which hold special meaning to just you. 

The truth of this question is that we probably only know a small amount of the impact we have.  There are so many untold stories of how a person’s life has been positively changed by this profession.  The next time you are at one of your programs or facilities, take a moment and look at the people.  Look at their faces.  Notice the smiles.  That is a result of positive impact. 

While it may seem we are always focused on the economic impact of what we do for our communities, we cannot discount the everyday things we do as park and recreation professionals that enhance the quality of life for the people we serve.

Never forget this profession allows you the opportunity to give smiles.  And when the stresses of the job seem overwhelming, look for the smiles and remember the passion you have for this profession!

*The Economic Impact of Local Parks, commissioned by NRPA and conducted by George Washington University – http://www.nrpa.org/parkeconreport/

Happy Monday,

Fall is in full swing and a new month is almost upon us! Since October is only a few days away, the Wellness Initiative is highlighting the International Walk or Bike to School Day taking place next Wednesday, October 7th.

Walk to School Day was organized by the Partnership for a Walkable America beginning in 1997. First established as a one-day event focusing on building awareness for the need for walkable communities. The event was recognized internationally in 2000 when the UK, Canada and USA combined their efforts and created the first International Walk to School Day.

What are the benefits of Walk to School Day? One of the primary benefits is involving your community, as well as your children. The common goal of improving walking and bicycling conditions brings together families, neighbors, schools and community leaders. It is a great way to start off the day with exercise and conversation about a common goal. Walking or bicycling to school also promotes regular physical activity that children and adults need every day. According to Walk Bike to School website, regular physical activity helps children build strong bones, muscles and joints, while decreasing the risk of obesity.

So, how can you connect Walk to School Day with your department and community? Last month the United States Surgeon General Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy released a Call-to-Action on Walking and Walkable Communities titled “Step it Up.” The “Step it Up” movement is focused on inspiring communities across the nation to become more active through a variety of activities, especially walking. This information is an awesome source to share in your community to inspire them to take advantage and participate in the Walk to School Day. More information on the benefits of walking and increasing physical activity can be found on the Surgeon General’s homepage. Remember to promote this information by using social media, such as: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Note that Walk to School Day falls on the Wednesday of the first full week of October, but the full month of October is considered International Walk to School Month. You can pick any day of October to promote this event. Please share your ideas if you are able to institute this event in your community. Stay active and promote wellness in your community! 

One last note, our next webinar will take place on Thursday, October 8^th, at 1:00pm. Derek Dunn and Sharon Williams, Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department, will be hosting. The topic will focus on creating a more inclusive outdoor recreation environment for persons with disabilities. It is important to offer equal opportunities for everyone, and as practitioners, part of our tasks is creating the ultimate recreation experience. Please click the following link to register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1001116701578498562

If you are participating on Walk to School day or have a program that aligns with the events goals we want to know! Email us your ideas or submit them on the wellness site here: (colleen@ncrpa.net, http://www.ncrpa.net/?Wellnesssub)

Colleen