The Healthy Communities Partnership: Lanark, Leeds and Grenville has identified two recommended actions, for our communities, in each of the priority areas:
Rural Recreation Association Executive Committee
The main purpose of the Rural Recreation Association Executive Committee is to develop the structure for a non-profit recreation and physical activity association that serves Lanark, Leeds and Grenville and surrounding region. This association will work to facilitate planning, professional development, communication, and the sharing of resources between individuals and organizations involved in physical activity and recreation. The executive committee is also responsible for planning the annual Recreation Summit.
Economic Benefits of Rural Recreation and Leisure Services Report Release
The report 'Economic Benefits of Rural Recreation and Leisure Services' was commissioned by the Rural Recreation Association as a resource and advocacy tool for champions to communicate with municipalities, individuals, organizations and decision makers about the ‘grounded-in-research’ economic benefits of recreation. The report explores: capital infrastructure, human resource capacity, programs and services, as well as outdoor leisure recreation.
Almost 70% of Ontario’s municipalities have a population of 10,000 people or less. Local governments face growing pressure with respect to encouraging or maintaining quality of life, addressing social issues and ensuring recreation and leisure services and supports remain a fundamental service for all residents, businesses and visitors.
In Ontario (2008), 98% of survey respondents believe that recreation and parks are essential services that benefit the whole community. - Harper
Decision Makers are encouraged to review the document for more detailed information and research as well as a listing of good practices and direct quotes from locals related to the economic benefits of recreation and leisure services.
The number of Ontario residents who put leisure before work has risen 24% since 1996. Local parks are essential to the good life, and Ontario residents are clueing in. - Harper
Just as infrastructure and taxes hold a competitive advantage for industrial development, quality of place and lifestyle amenities are competitive advantages to encourage local economic development.
Who should use this report?
Recreation Staff, non-profit organizations who offer recreation services, anyone who wishes to advance the importance and services of recreation. The report can be used as a resource and advocacy tool for champions to communicate with municipalities, individuals, organizations and decision makers about the ‘grounded-in-research’ economic benefits of rural recreation.
